Trump: ‘Great Talks’ with Putin, says Zelensky ‘Not important’ for meeting

Donald Trump escalated tensions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, dismissing his presence as unnecessary in peace talks aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Speaking to Fox News, Trump claimed he had “good talks” with Russian President Vladimir Putin but found negotiations with Ukraine difficult.

Trump later clarified that Zelensky and Putin must “get together” to resolve the conflict. However, he accused the Ukrainian leader of making peace talks difficult and having “no cards to play.” Addressing U.S. governors at the White House, Trump emphasized that the war “cannot continue” while reiterating his belief that Ukraine was excluded from key Saudi-hosted ceasefire discussions.

Tensions between Trump and Zelensky grew after Trump labeled the Ukrainian president a “dictator” and falsely claimed Ukraine “started” the war. Trump criticized Zelensky’s complaints about exclusion from U.S.-led negotiations and suggested Ukraine should grant U.S. companies access to its mineral deposits in exchange for continued financial aid. Zelensky rejected the proposal but expressed hope for a “fair result.”

Trump also targeted French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, accusing them of failing to take decisive action against Russia. He dismissed their efforts, claiming, “They haven’t done anything.” Macron responded, vowing to remind Trump that “you can’t be weak with President Putin.”

As Starmer prepares for a White House visit, he faces mounting pressure to challenge Trump’s stance on Ukraine. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey warned that Trump’s approach risks a “stitch-up” with Putin, which could betray Ukraine. He urged Starmer to take a firm stand in upcoming discussions.

With Trump pushing for negotiations on his terms, global leaders must navigate complex diplomatic tensions while addressing the ongoing war in Ukraine.