Trump: Europe Must Play a Central Role in Ensuring Long-Term Security in Ukraine

US President Donald Trump addressed the media on Monday with remarks about the ongoing peacemaking efforts between Ukraine and Russia. With Russia’s military operation in Ukraine stretching over a thousand days, despite initial expectations of a swift conquest, President Trump, who has been seeking to strengthen ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin for years, is focusing on isolating Ukraine from NATO and negotiating a substantial deal worth half a trillion dollars for Ukraine.

President Trump also attributed the initial cause of Russia’s invasion to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, accusing him of failing to prevent the conflict and not stopping it once it began.

In a concurrently scheduled press conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin echoed his views on the unfolding Ukraine-Russia situation, adding to the day’s stream of Ukraine-centric news.

Key Highlights:

– Trump does not see any issue with deploying European troops as peacekeepers in Ukraine.
– He may meet with Zelenskyy “this week or next” to sign a “minerals deal.”
– Trump plans to meet with Putin “at some point.”
– He believes NATO is beneficial if managed properly.
– Trump commends Italy’s leadership under Prime Minister Meloni, emphasizing Italy’s importance.
– He is working on economic development initiatives with Russia.
– Trump asserts he could end the Ukraine conflict within weeks.
– May 9 might be “a little soon” for a visit to Moscow, but he is open to visiting at the right time.
– Trump believes Putin will accept European peacekeepers, but the question of Ukraine ceding territory remains uncertain.
– Positive discussions have taken place, including talks with Russia about ending the Ukraine war.
– Trump describes his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron as a step forward towards peace.
– Macron agrees that this is the “right time,” and potentially the only time, to end the war in Ukraine.
– Trump states that Europe must take a central role in ensuring long-term security in Ukraine.
– Macron agrees that Europe should bear the costs and responsibilities of the Ukraine conflict.
– Progress has been made toward securing a minerals deal for Ukraine.
– Trump emphasizes the focus on achieving a ceasefire and ultimately a permanent peace.

Putin Highlights:

– Trump aims to improve the political situation in Ukraine to ensure its survival.
– Trump’s stance aligns more with Ukraine’s interests than Russia’s.
– Trump is approaching the situation rationally, rather than emotionally.
– Putin sees no issue with European participation in Ukraine negotiations.
– Future US-Russia contacts will primarily focus on bilateral relations.
– Putin agrees with the idea of reducing defense budgets with the US, viewing it as beneficial.