The former US President Donald Trump indicated a sharp turn in his strategy for the war in Ukraine with a White House press conference, expressing skepticism over the possibility of a quick ceasefire. The comments, made following the Alaska summit and before a planned call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, were generally interpreted as a diplomatic victory for Moscow.
Trump had long called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, even threatening Russian sanctions if it did not comply. But on Monday evening, he walked away from that position.
"Strategically that could be a disadvantage for one side," Trump said. The words track closely with the Kremlin's own narrative: that a ceasefire can only come after a full peace agreement on Russian terms.
Witnesses point out the change may mean that Washington is softening to Moscow's idea of an agreement, and questions are raised as to how much leverage the U.S. may put on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to make concessions.
Trump assured that he had talked to Putin "indirectly" and would call him once his meetings were over. "He's waiting for my call when we're done," Trump indicated, hinting at a trilateral meeting with himself, Putin, and Zelensky.
"If they don't, the fighting continues," Trump threatened. "And if they do, we have a good chance of maybe ending it."
The Kremlin is likely to embrace Trump's more relaxed approach, fortifying Putin's negotiating hand.
"I Love the Ukrainian and Russian People"
Trump also highlighted his fondness for both countries trapped in the battle. "The people of Ukraine are great people who love their homeland. I love the Russian people too," he said, casting himself as a dealmaker who could bring people together.
He also reported that a number of European leaders who were waiting elsewhere in the White House were keen to help negotiate peace.
Zelensky, while appearing with Trump, painted a much more contrasting picture. When asked what security assurances Ukraine requires from Washington, he replied succinctly: "Everything."
The Ukrainian president ticked off weapons, troops, intelligence, and training missions as top priorities. "We need a powerful Ukrainian army," he stressed, highlighting Kyiv's commitment to thwarting Russian advances.
Even as the discussions were serious, there was a moment of levity in the Oval Office. A journalist inquired about Zelensky's outfit a repeat of the February press briefing when his military attire made headlines.
This time, dressed in a dark suit, Zelensky turned the question back on the reporter: “You’re wearing the same suit [as last time],” he quipped, drawing laughter. Trump chimed in, telling Zelensky he looked good.
While minor, the exchange reflected Zelensky’s effort to project statesmanship and adapt to Trump’s emphasis on formality.
Trump's comments have set alarm bells ringing in Kyiv's partners, who worry that Washington's increasing alignment with Moscow's ceasefire-before-peace approach might undermine Ukraine's hand. For now, everybody waits to see what happens at Trump–Putin's next phone call, which might determine the next stage of talks or extend the conflict.
