Trump Attacks Zelenskyy For Resisting Calls To Cede Crimea To Russia
President Donald Trump criticized Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for refusing to cede Crimea to Russia as part of a potential peace deal, calling Zelenskyy’s stance “very harmful” to negotiations. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine would not give up any territory to Russia, emphasizing that Crimea belongs to the Ukrainian people.
Recent talks in Paris revealed a proposal from U.S. officials that included allowing Russia to maintain control of occupied Ukrainian territory, which Zelenskyy rejected. Trump questioned why Ukraine did not fight for Crimea when it was annexed by Russia in 2014.
The ongoing negotiations in London involve discussions on a proposal to freeze territorial lines and achieve a ceasefire. Vice President JD Vance emphasized the need for a decisive outcome from the talks.
Trump expressed frustration with the slow progress in negotiations and hinted at a possible meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Middle East. Despite efforts to reach a ceasefire, attacks continue along the front line in Ukraine.
The talks in London faced uncertainty after U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy confirmed that only lower-ranking officials would participate. The sudden cancellation of Secretary of State Marco Rubio raised doubts about the direction of the negotiations.
Despite challenges, Ukraine remains committed to peaceful efforts and is ready to engage in discussions for a ceasefire. The path to peace is difficult, but officials are determined to achieve a just and lasting resolution to the conflict.
Trump’s promises to end the war quickly have not materialized, leading to frustration with both Zelenskyy and Putin. The U.S. proposal for land exchange for peace has faced skepticism from European allies, but there is recognition of Russia’s presence in multiple regions of Ukraine.
As negotiations continue, the focus remains on securing a ceasefire and advancing towards a comprehensive settlement. Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine for the latest updates.
