Trump Faces Press Over Ukraine Peace Strategy Amid Shift in U.S. Policy
Trump was particularly combative during a Monday news conference when an Australian journalist questioned his proposal to end the Ukraine-Russia war. In the stately White House cabinet room, the reporter asked why Trump couldn’t let Ukraine end the war immediately. Trump answered sharply, stating, “If you knew what you were talking about…” I don’t think you do… It’s more complicated.” The exchange raised questions about Trump’s changing stance on the conflict, which differs from his past backing.
Trump has urged Ukraine and Russia to “stop where they are” and end fighting in recent days. He also urged that Ukraine cede eastern Donbas area, much of which is seized by Russia. This contradicts his previous belief that Ukraine could retake its territories. Moscow rejected Trump’s latest offer, reiterating its demand that Ukraine yield the whole Donbas territory, making a cease-fire deal impossible.
The president told reporters that a war-ending deal was possible but warned: “If we make a deal, that’s great. We must negotiate a bargain or many will pay a high price.” He also revealed arrangements to meet with Putin in Hungary in the future weeks after a lengthy phone discussion. Russian authorities have downplayed the summit’s timeline, but it’s meant to advance Ukraine settlement.
Trump told the journalist that he was growing increasingly doubtful that Ukraine could fight Russia. Ukraine might prevail, but he didn’t think so, calling war “a very strange thing.” Washington’s European allies worry about the U.S. focusing on territorial compromise rather than full border restoration. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said any peace accord cannot give the aggressor territory.
The Australian reporter’s inquiry highlighted Trump’s peace initiative’s difficulties and his changing Ukraine narrative. Instead of declaring victory for Kyiv, he now proposes holding the front lines and giving up land to end the war. This transition has posed important strategic and political considerations about Ukraine’s future, America’s participation in the conflict, and how allies and foes see the future.
The anticipated U.S.–Russia conference raises questions about whether Trump’s new approach will work or deepen divisions between Washington, Kyiv, and Moscow. The battle conclusion is unclear, major parameters are disputed, and Trump’s negotiation involvement is under review.
Sources
Associated Press, Reuters, The Guardian, The Washington Post, Al Jazeera.
