The former US president says he’s been working diligently to halt the conflict.
Donald Trump has reiterated his intention to mediate a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.
He emphasized the importance of stopping the fighting during a speech to Congress on Tuesday.
”Millions of Ukrainians and Russians have been pointlessly killed or injured in this terrible conflict with no end in sight,” he stated, adding he has been “working diligently” to achieve a truce.
Trump highlighted that while the casualties are not American, he desires an end to the bloodshed.
“It’s time to end this senseless war. If you want to end wars, you have to talk to both sides,” Trump stated.
He criticized European allies, alleging they are spending more on Russian energy than on aid to Ukraine. He also claimed that US funding for Ukraine has been excessively high, given the relatively low risks to the US.
“The United States has sent hundreds of billions of dollars to support Ukraine’s defense… You want to keep it going for another five years?” he questioned.
The speech followed a tense meeting between Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky and Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance at the White House. Zelensky was reportedly asked to shorten his visit after the disagreement, and a proposed minerals deal between the US and Ukraine was left unsigned.
Trump stated on Tuesday that the agreement, which he hopes will recoup the funds previously allocated to Ukraine, remains on track. He referenced Zelensky’s earlier statement expressing readiness to negotiate a ceasefire and sign the minerals agreement. Trump said he appreciated Zelensky’s change of heart.
The Oval Office dispute arose from Zelensky’s assertions that Russia is untrustworthy and that Ukraine requires security guarantees from the US before any ceasefire. Trump has refused to provide specific guarantees to Kiev and has dismissed the possibility of NATO membership for Ukraine.
“We’ve had serious discussions with Russia and have received strong signals that they are ready for peace,” Trump emphasized.
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