In a fresh statement that has stirred global debate, U.S. President Donald Trump said Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky holds the power to end the ongoing war with Russia “almost immediately.” However, Trump made it clear that Kyiv reclaiming Crimea or joining NATO are non-negotiable.
The remarks came just hours before a scheduled White House meeting with Zelensky and European leaders. Posting on his Truth Social account, Trump wrote:
President Zelenskyy of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight.
He went on to stress that Crimea — annexed by Russia in 2014 under the Obama administration — would not be returned to Ukraine, saying:
No getting back Obama-given Crimea (12 years ago, without a shot being fired!), and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE. Some things never change!!!
The timing of Trump’s comments is significant. Earlier this year, he and Zelensky clashed publicly during a White House meeting that was expected to finalize a deal on Ukraine’s mineral resources and explore potential peace negotiations with Moscow.
While Trump positions himself as a dealmaker capable of brokering a swift end to the war, critics argue that his stance dismisses Ukraine’s sovereignty and security concerns. For Kyiv, reclaiming occupied territories and securing NATO membership remain central to its long-term defense strategy.
As the war grinds on, Trump’s blunt message adds another layer of complexity to already fragile diplomatic efforts. All eyes now turn to the upcoming White House discussions to see if his words will translate into actionable policy or further strain U.S.-Ukraine relations.
-Deeprows News
For more latest gists,
