Fox News channel aired an interview with U.S. President Donald Trump, following his meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky and European Union leaders. In the interview, the American leader expressed his views on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the potential future negotiations.
On the Future Meeting
Trump stated that he does not plan to attend the potential first meeting between Putin and Zelensky. He emphasized that if the first meeting is successful, a trilateral meeting may be held afterward.
On NATO, Crimea, and the Deployment of Troops in Ukraine
According to the U.S. president, for the Russians, Ukraine’s membership in NATO was already taboo before Putin. He noted that the USSR and Russia never wanted NATO near their borders. Trump also said that the return of Crimea to Ukraine is impossible.
Trump stressed that, as U.S. president, he would be against the deployment of American troops in Ukraine. However, he added that if European countries, such as France, the UK, and Germany, decide to send their troops to Ukraine, it would not be an issue for Russia.
On Putin and Zelensky
Trump acknowledged Putin’s responsibility and expressed hope that Putin would behave properly; otherwise, the situation could worsen. He believes Zelensky needs to show flexibility. European leaders at the White House meeting approached the issue of territorial compromises for Ukraine with understanding. These processes could result in significant land losses for Ukraine.
On Russia and Putin
Trump stated that he did not call the Russian president in front of European leaders, as it would be disrespectful to Putin. He also pointed out that, whether people like it or not, Russia is a powerful military state and maintains its position as an important geopolitical force in the world. Trump does not think that reaching a peace agreement will be a problem. In his view, Putin is tired of the war, and all sides are tired, though the exact results will likely only become clear with time.
Trump also mentioned that there is a possibility that Putin may not want to agree to a settlement, and the exact conclusions may not be known until the next few weeks.
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