Trump Urges Zelensky to Accept Putin's Terms amid Ukraine War
In a volatile meeting at the White House on Friday, US President Donald Trump urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to accept Russia's terms for ending the ongoing war. Trump warned Zelensky that Russia's President Vladimir Putin threatened to destroy
Ukraine if it did not comply, as reported by the Financial Times and echoed by numerous sources such as the South China Morning Post, La Repubblica, and Folha de S.Paulo.
Background and Context
The war in Ukraine has been a long-standing issue, with Russia seeking full control of the Donetsk region (Donbas). According to the Kyiv Independent, Putin considers control of this territory as key to any deal with Ukraine. Zelensky, however, has expressed that no unoccupied lands should be given to 'terrorist' Putin, adding that Ukraine is preparing certain actions on the front line and responding to every Russian attack.
Key Developments
During the White House meeting, Trump repeatedly insisted Zelensky surrender the entire eastern Donbas region to Russia. This suggestion was also propagated by Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Ambassador at Large and Special Envoy to the Middle East, who pressured Ukraine to cede the Donetsk region to the Russian Federation, as reported by Ukrinform.
The US also suggested supplying Tomahawk weapons to Ukraine if Russia does not negotiate a ceasefire, as mentioned by Al Jazeera English. Zelensky was in Washington hoping to obtain these missiles. Le Monde reported that Trump had suggested an ultimatum to Zelensky: either Russia begins genuine peace negotiations, or Ukraine receives the said missiles.
Implications and Reactions
Trump's position on the Ukraine war has generated reactions from various quarters. Zelensky stated that Trump must be tougher with Putin than he has been with Hamas, according to Le Monde. He also expressed his readiness to travel to Budapest for a summit with his American and Russian counterparts.
Simultaneously, Sky News reported that the UK is ready to spend well over
£100m on a possible deployment of British forces to Ukraine if Trump secures a peace deal with Russia.
Conclusion and Current Status
As of now, the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, with the US attempting to broker a deal. Trump's stance, leaning towards Russia's demands, has created a tumultuous atmosphere in international relations. The Ukrainian leader is reportedly working with the U.S. to defend themselves with Patriots, as reported by Corriere della Sera.
In conclusion, Trump's urging of Zelensky to accept Putin's terms has brought new dynamics to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, with potential implications for international diplomacy and security. The situation remains fluid, and the world watches as developments unfold in the days to come.