Donald Trump has said that Ukraine, rather than Russia, is delaying progress toward a potential peace agreement, a position that sharply contrasts with the views of many European allies who argue Moscow has little interest in ending the war.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Reuters at the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump said Russian President Vladimir Putin is prepared to conclude the nearly four-year conflict, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy remains hesitant.
“I think he’s ready to make a deal,” Trump said of Putin. “I think Ukraine is less ready to make a deal.”
Trump Points to Zelenskiy as Main Obstacle
Asked why US-led efforts have yet to resolve Europe’s largest land war since World War II, Trump offered a blunt response: “Zelenskiy.”
The comments signal renewed frustration from Trump toward the Ukrainian leader. While relations between the two presidents have historically been strained, they appeared to stabilize somewhat during Trump’s first year back in office. Even so, Trump has at times shown greater willingness to accept Putin’s assurances than many US allies, a stance that has unsettled Kyiv, European capitals, and lawmakers in Washington — including members of Trump’s own Republican Party.
In December, Reuters reported that US intelligence assessments continued to warn that Putin had not abandoned broader territorial ambitions in Ukraine and parts of Europe once under Soviet control. That assessment was publicly challenged at the time by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.
Negotiations Focus on Post-War Security
Recent negotiations led by Washington have centered on security guarantees for a post-war Ukraine, aimed at preventing renewed Russian aggression after any agreement is reached. According to officials familiar with the talks, US negotiators have pressed Kyiv to consider relinquishing parts of its eastern Donbas region as part of a broader settlement.
Ukrainian officials have taken part in these discussions, which on the US side are being led by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Some European officials, however, have expressed skepticism that Putin would ultimately accept terms negotiated by Ukraine, the United States, and its allies.
Trump said he was unaware of any imminent plans for Witkoff or Kushner to travel to Moscow, despite earlier reporting suggesting such a visit was being considered.
Davos Meeting Uncertain
Trump also said he could meet Zelenskiy at the upcoming World Economic Forum in Davos, though he indicated no formal plans had been finalized.
“I would — if he’s there,” Trump said. “I’m going to be there.”
When pressed on why he believes Zelenskiy is reluctant to move forward with negotiations, Trump offered little detail. “I just think he’s, you know, having a hard time getting there,” he said.
Zelenskiy has consistently rejected the idea of territorial concessions to Moscow, arguing that Ukraine’s constitution does not allow the government to give up sovereign land.
Sharp Divide With European Allies
Trump’s remarks underline a growing divergence between Washington and European allies over responsibility for the stalled peace process. While Trump argues Kyiv is slowing negotiations, European leaders have largely maintained that Moscow has shown no genuine commitment to ending the conflict.
As diplomatic efforts continue, Trump’s comments are likely to intensify debate over the future of US involvement in Ukraine and the conditions under which a lasting peace might be achieved.