The US President has expressed optimism about reaching a Russia–Ukraine peace agreement but has indicated he may withdraw from negotiations if they “continue to act foolishly and engage in conflict.”
In a revealing interview on NBC News’ Meet the Press, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the United States is more aligned with one side in the Ukraine-Russia war, although he did not specify which side. He emphasized active U.S. mediation efforts, saying, “there are moments when I consider pulling out, but then something positive occurs.”
Trump confirmed the establishment of a new rare metals deal with Ukraine, labeling it a “good deal for the American people.” He criticized Joe Biden for “squandering” $350 billion without accountability. “Europe is spending a third of what we are, yet they find this war more critical,” he remarked.
“Russia should relinquish all of Ukraine”
When asked if he believes Russia will retain its occupied territories, Trump responded strongly, “Russia must cede all of Ukraine. It seeks complete control, not just the areas it currently occupies.”
Trump positioned himself as the only world leader capable of applying real pressure on Putin. “European leaders are pleading with me to reach out to him, as he doesn’t respond to them,” he noted, adding, “Without my involvement, Putin would have fully taken Ukraine.”
While he suggested he might have been a victim of “tactical delay” from Putin, he maintained that he hadn’t misread the situation: “I’ll have more to say in two weeks or a month.”
Biden “never called Putin”
Trump again criticized Biden for his handling of the Ukrainian crisis, stating, “He’s never called him once in three years” and reaffirming that “if I were president, this war wouldn’t have started.”
He referred to satellite images showing thousands of dead soldiers weekly, expressing, “If I can save 5,000 lives a week, that’s my goal—whether Russian or Ukrainian lives.”
Open to sanctions and possible withdrawal from talks
Regarding a proposed sanctions initiative against Russia, similar to one by Senator Lindsey Graham, Trump said, “It depends on whether Russia shows a genuine interest in peace.” He didn’t dismiss the idea of withdrawing the U.S. from negotiations if no progress is made, stating, “There will come a time when I’ll say, ‘Okay, keep being foolish and continue the fighting.’”
When asked if military and intelligence support for Ukraine would cease if he withdrew, he refrained from answering, simply stating, “It’s too early for that discussion.”
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