Trump in the Vatican: Zelensky ready to cede Crimea for peace
Donald Trump spoke following the Saturday conversation with Volodymyr Zelensky in the Vatican. The President of the USA expressed his belief that Zelensky is prepared to relinquish Crimea in exchange for lasting peace. He also disclosed what he currently expects from Vladimir Putin.
What do you need to know?
- 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 12 years ago. That was President Obama that gave it up without a shot being fired," said Trump.
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.
Trump remarked that he believes the Ukrainian leader understands the situation and is interested in reaching a deal. He noted that during their meeting at the Vatican, the Ukrainian president once again emphasized the need for more weapons, a request Trump pointed out has been repeated over the past three years.
The President of the USA joked that the last meeting with Zelensky took place in the nicest office he has been in.
What are Trump's expectations from Russia?
Trump also expressed his surprise and disappointment with the continuation of Russian bombardments of Ukraine, despite previous discussions about ending the war.
He expressed his expectation that Vladimir Putin would halt military actions and sign a peace agreement, emphasizing his desire for Putin to stop the fighting, sit down at the negotiating table, and finalize an agreement. He added that he believes there is already a framework in place for such a deal.
