trump in the vatican: zelensky ready to cede crimea for peace

• Donald Trump assessed that Volodymyr Zelensky is ready to surrender Crimea to achieve lasting peace.
• Trump also expressed surprise and disappointment with the ongoing Russian bombardments of Ukraine.
• Trump's meeting with Zelensky took place in the Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica on the day of Pope Francis' funeral.

During a Sunday conversation with journalists, Donald Trump stated that Volodymyr Zelensky may be prepared to relinquish Crimea in exchange for lasting peace.

The President of the USA reminded us that the annexation of Crimea occurred in 2014 when Barack Obama was in the White House. "Crimea was 9 years ago. That was President Obama. They gave it up without a shot. So don’t talk to me about Crimea. Talk to Obama and Biden about Crimea," said Trump.

See also: Trump-Zelensky meeting. Fr. Prof. Kobyliński: We are heading towards a sad solution

Trump assessed that his Saturday meeting with the President of Ukraine in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome was positive, and Zelensky appears calmer compared to their previous meeting and argument in the White House.

"I think he understands the situation and that he wants to make a deal," said Trump, adding that the Ukrainian leader repeated in the Vatican that he needs more weapons. "But he's been saying that for three years," added Trump.

The President of the USA joked that the last meeting with Zelensky took place in the nicest office he has been in.

Trump also expressed his surprise and disappointment with the continuation of Russian bombardments of Ukraine, despite previous discussions about ending the war.

He stated that he expects Vladimir Putin to cease military actions and sign a peace agreement. "I want him to stop shooting, sit down, and sign an agreement. (...). I think we have the framework for an agreement," he said.

Source: PAP