Former President Donald Trump has recently criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, claiming that Zelensky’s stance is hindering peace negotiations with Russia. This comment comes after Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s refusal to accept Russian control over Crimea, a region that Russia annexed in 2014.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed frustration, stating that a deal to end the ongoing conflict was "very close." He suggested that Zelensky’s unwillingness to agree to U.S. terms would only extend the war. U.S. Vice-President JD Vance also outlined a potential agreement, indicating that both Ukraine and Russia would need to make territorial concessions.
Zelensky has consistently rejected any notion of giving up Crimea, asserting that such a move would violate Ukraine’s constitution. He emphasized that there is nothing to discuss regarding Crimea’s status, as it is against the principles of international law that prohibit changing borders through force.
The tensions between Trump and Zelensky highlight the challenges in finding a resolution to the conflict. Trump has stated he believes Russia is ready for a deal, contrasting it with his experiences negotiating with Ukraine. He mentioned that he found it harder to work with Zelensky, leaving the door open for a potential meeting between the two leaders.
Meanwhile, the situation on the ground remains dire. Ukraine reported a series of missile and drone attacks from Russia that resulted in casualties in Kyiv and other regions. The attacks have intensified following a brief pause during the Easter holiday, raising concerns about the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis.
As the conflict continues, U.S. officials have pulled out of planned talks in London to focus on discussions in Moscow. The urgency for a ceasefire is palpable, but the path to peace remains uncertain. With both sides holding firm on their positions, the quest for a resolution to the war shows no signs of an easy breakthrough.