Donald Trump has criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of jeopardizing peace talks over the ongoing war in Ukraine by making what Trump described as “inflammatory statements.”
At a recent press conference, Zelensky declared that Ukraine would never recognize Russia’s control over Crimea. Trump responded by saying such remarks only serve to delay a resolution to the conflict, which has already claimed countless lives.
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Posting on his social media platform, Trump stated, “This statement is very harmful to the peace negotiations with Russia,” and warned that it would prolong what he called a “killing field.”
These comments came after U.S. Vice President JD Vance issued a stark warning, saying the U.S. might withdraw from its mediation role if progress toward a deal isn’t made. U.S. officials also pulled out of scheduled meetings in London to prioritize discussions in Moscow.
According to reports, a central element of the U.S. peace proposal involves formally recognizing Crimea as part of Russia—a suggestion Zelensky firmly rejected, citing the Ukrainian constitution.
“The killing must stop. That’s the top priority,” Zelensky said in a social media post the following day.
Tensions between the two leaders have simmered for months. Earlier in the year, they clashed during a heated Oval Office encounter. Despite Trump’s past campaign claims that he could end the war in one day, a ceasefire remains elusive as his administration nears its 100-day mark.
During a visit to India, Vance reiterated the need for urgency, saying, “It’s time for them to either say yes or for the U.S. to walk away.” He acknowledged that a final agreement might require both Ukraine and Russia to make territorial compromises.
Recent talks in London, aimed at securing a ceasefire, were scaled back after two top American diplomats withdrew. One of Trump’s envoys remained in London, while another traveled to Russia for further negotiations.
Meanwhile, speculation is growing that Russia may be open to halting its invasion if allowed to retain current front-line positions and gain international recognition of its hold on Crimea. However, this claim has been publicly denied by Moscow.
Zelensky insisted that no such offer had been presented to Ukraine and maintained that any deal involving the ceding of Crimea is non-negotiable. Ukrainian officials said they are participating in the peace talks with a narrow focus on securing a ceasefire as a first step.
As the diplomatic dance continues, Russia resumed airstrikes following a short Easter pause. A drone attack in the eastern city of Marhanets killed nine people and wounded many more.
The broader war, which began in 2014 with Russia’s annexation of Crimea and escalated dramatically in 2022, has displaced millions and caused staggering casualties on both sides.
Despite talks of peace, military actions continue, with claims that Russia remains unwilling to fully commit to a ceasefire. The international community remains uncertain about the direction or outcome of the latest round of negotiations.