Trump and Putin Find Common Ground on Ukraine, but Zelensky Remains Firm

In a series of statements following a significant meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, it appears both leaders have found common ground on key aspects concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump expressed that he largely agrees with Putin on the potential for a land exchange between Ukraine and Russia as part of a future peace agreement. Both leaders acknowledged the necessity for enhanced security measures for Ukraine, but emphasized that these must come outside of NATO. During an interview on Fox News, Trump reiterated his agreement with Putin's stance, stating, "Naturally Ukraine's security must also be guaranteed." He highlighted that at the recent press conference, Putin indicated the importance of negotiation on these issues, noting, "I believe those are points we negotiate. And they are points on which we largely agree." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, however, is taking a firmer stance. Just last Tuesday, he made it clear that Ukrainian troops would not abandon the Donbas region and rejected the idea of a territorial exchange with Russia. Zelensky worried that conceding territory could provide a pretext for Russia to launch a new offensive. In light of this tension, the White House has advised Zelensky to consider the deal with Russia, despite his reservations. Trump pointed to the substantial financial support Ukraine has received during the conflict, stating, "Biden handed out money like it was candy, and Europe gave him a lot of money. We gave him 350 billion, and Europe gave him much less, but still a lot, 100 billion." According to Trump, the prospect for a ceasefire and a real peace agreement now rests heavily on the shoulders of President Zelensky. "It really depends now on President Zelensky to achieve a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia," Trump said in an interview shortly after the bilateral summit. He also mentioned that the involvement of European nations is necessary but placed the ultimate responsibility for progress firmly on Zelensky's decision-making. Despite the cordiality of the meeting, Trump opted not to reveal the specific disagreements that surfaced during discussions, though he did indicate that differences exist on a couple of significant issues. "Its still not resolved at all, and Ukraine has to agree; meaning President Zelensky has to agree. But it's a terrible war in which a lot is being lost, and both are losing a lot," the former president stated. As international attention remains focused on the volatile situation in Ukraine, the balance of power and the negotiations are ongoing, with Trump advocating for a resolution while Zelensky stands firm in defending his country's territory. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3