Former US President emphasizes diplomacy to resolve the Ukraine conflict, pledges readiness for dialogue with both Russian and Ukrainian leaders.
 |
Trump Signals Willingness for Peace Talks with Putin |
Former US President Donald Trump said he is ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. They would talk about finding a peaceful solution to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Trump reiterated during the White House briefing that the standoff with Ukraine could not take place at the end of 2022 if he were the president. He added, "Russia would not have invaded Ukraine while under my presidency. I had a tough understanding with Putin."
Trump labeled NATO's eastern member states as "fools" while referring to Putin as "smart" and saying that the military intervention in Ukraine took place due to a lack of respect for President Joe Biden. He further requested a quick end to the conflict, stating, "I want to see this war come to an end."
The former president said the current Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, very much wants peace. 'He has told me this clearly, but peace needs both sides to work with each other,' Trump said. Asked if he would meet Putin, he said, 'Anytime they are, I'm ready.
Trump spoke of conversations with Zelensky and even hinted at a meeting with Putin: "We are in communication with Zelensky and will soon engage with the President of Russia. Let's see how it develops."
He also noted potential actions which his team could take, such as further sanctions if Moscow did not support peace efforts, enjoining the two by saying that "more military help for Ukraine should be looked into.
While in a meeting of Russia's National Security Council, Putin discussed Trump's remarks regarding enhancing US-Russia dialogue. He emphasized that any dialogue should be honest and respectful. Putin appreciated the idea of Trump, particularly his intention to avoid escalating tensions around the world, and congratulated the US president on his victory in the election.