Mar-a-Lago, Florida – United States President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that Ukraine and Russia are nearing a settlement regarding the contested Donbas region. However, he cautioned that significant challenges remain, and the outcome of negotiations is expected to be known in the coming weeks.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following an extended meeting at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, President Trump addressed a question regarding the Donbas region. “The solution isn’t here yet, but it’s getting closer and closer. It’s a very thorny issue, but I think it will be resolved,” he said, noting that Russia is demanding Ukraine relinquish the region and that he believes Russia needs to adjust its demands.
The US President emphasized that only one or two issues remain outstanding in the ongoing talks between Russia and Ukraine. He expressed optimism that a resolution to the war in Ukraine is within reach. “In a matter of weeks, we will know one way or another if the talks have been fruitful,” Trump stated, acknowledging the negotiations as “extremely difficult.” He added that discussions with European leaders have been productive and have led to significant progress towards ending the war in Ukraine.
Regarding a potential visit to Ukraine, President Trump did not rule it out, stating, “I suggested going there and speaking before their parliament.”
Both President Trump and President Zelensky indicated they were close to an agreement on a security pact between the United States and Ukraine. However, Trump stressed the need to resolve some “thorny issues” related to territory.
On the subject of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, a key point of contention in the talks, President Trump revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is working with Ukraine to restart the facility. “He’s been very good in that regard. He wants to see the plant operating, and he hasn’t bombarded it with missiles,” Trump added.
Ukraine has repeatedly ruled out working with Russia on operating the plant. Zelensky’s proposal involves shared control of the plant between Ukraine and the United States.
President Trump also pointed to significant economic benefits for Ukraine within the proposed peace plan, adding that he will continue to work towards a lasting resolution.
