Trump commended both leaders for their decision, highlighting that the process was swift and equitable. He further noted that the United States offered its support.
He mentioned having resolved several conflicts in the past eleven months, suggesting that the United States might have become “the REAL United Nations.” Trump criticized the United Nations for its limited efficacy in addressing current conflicts, asserting, “The United Nations must begin to take action and engage in WORLD PEACE!”
Trump revealed that he spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin prior to his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago. The meeting was scheduled for 1 p.m. in the main dining area, with press access granted.
He affirmed that both Putin and Zelenskyy desire an end to the war. “The two leaders want it to cease,” he stated at the beginning of the gathering.
Trump expressed his belief that Putin genuinely wishes to resolve the conflict, and noted Ukraine’s significant military actions, including strikes within Russia. He mentioned that some blasts in Russia “don’t appear to have originated from the Congo.”
While welcoming Zelenskyy, Trump remarked, “This gentleman has put in tremendous effort, demonstrating remarkable bravery, and his people are equally courageous.”
Trump stated he would discuss matters with Putin again after this meeting and would also reach out to European leaders. However, he cautioned, “It will either conclude, or it’s going to persist for an extended period, leading to millions more lives lost.”
Before their conversation, Zelenskyy indicated he would address territorial issues. He noted that negotiators had been working on a 20-point draft plan, which was approximately 90 percent finalized.
This plan included potential US security guarantees for Ukraine similar to those afforded to NATO countries. Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine might reconsider its NATO aspirations if assurances against future aggression were provided.
He also spoke with US representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner on Christmas Day, acknowledging that sensitive discussions lay ahead and the coming weeks could be challenging.
Prior to these discussions, Russia intensified strikes on Ukraine, with local officials reporting three guided bombs hitting homes in Sloviansk, resulting in one fatality and three injuries. The day before, missile and drone attacks on Kyiv reportedly left at least one person dead and 27 injured.
According to Putin’s advisor Yuri Ushakov, the Trump-Putin conversation lasted over an hour and was “friendly, benevolent, and businesslike,” with the U.S. initiating the call. Both leaders agreed to communicate again in the near future.
Ushakov mentioned that Kyiv needs to make a political decision regarding the Donbas region and other contentious areas for a comprehensive cease-fire. He indicated that Russian police and national guard forces could remain in certain parts of Donetsk even under a demilitarized framework. He cautioned that negotiations may take time, noting that Ukraine and European allies had influenced US perspectives.
Throughout his first year back in office, Trump has been active regarding the Ukraine conflict, expressing exasperation with both leaders. Although he previously claimed during his 2024 campaign that the war could be resolved quickly, he now acknowledges it is more complicated than anticipated.
Following a meeting with Zelenskyy at the White House, Trump urged both parties to cease fighting along the current front lines.
Zelenskyy mentioned he would contemplate troop withdrawals from the east if Russia also decreased its presence and if international forces could oversee the area.
Putin seeks recognition of control over territories captured in four regions along with Crimea. He also demands that Ukraine abandon its NATO aspirations, pull back from remaining territories, limit its military size, and grant status to the Russian language. Ukraine has firmly rejected these conditions.
Ushakov warned that Russia expects Western troops not to enter Ukraine and cautioned they would be considered targets.
Trump has shown a willingness to consider that Putin might agree to end the war if Ukraine concedes land in the Donbas and if Russia receives economic incentives to reintegrate into global markets.
Trump affirmed, “The United States of America, as always, was proud to assist!” He emphasized the necessity for the United Nations to adopt a more active role in peace initiatives, planning further discussions with both sides and European governments.
