Trump's bold gambit: Recognising Russian control over Crimea
The "Times," citing its sources, reports that President Donald Trump's plan regarding the maintenance of Russian control over the occupied Ukrainian territory is indisputable.
Key information
- Donald Trump proposes recognising Russian control over Crimea and other occupied territories of Ukraine.
- Trump's meeting with Zelensky may take place in Rome during Pope Francis's funeral.
- The USA threatens to withdraw from the peace process if Kyiv does not accept the proposal.
President Donald Trump's proposal to recognise Russian control over the occupied territories of Ukraine is causing tensions on the international stage. As reported by the "Times," cited by the Polish Press Agency, Trump is pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to accept peace terms, which include recognising Russian sovereignty over Crimea and other areas in the east and south of Ukraine.
According to sources close to Steve Witkoff, the US envoy, Trump believes that Zelensky "really has no choice" but to accept his proposal. Otherwise, as the "Times" reports, Trump threatens to withdraw from the peace process. The plan stipulates that the Russian-occupied territories will remain under its control, which is indisputable according to the American president.
The British and French are attempting to persuade Trump to meet Zelensky after Pope Francis's funeral to ease tensions. However, the Italian government considers that such a meeting could be inappropriate due to the circumstances. Trump's schedule indicates that he will leave St. Peter's Basilica and head to the airport an hour after the funeral.
Washington warns that Kyiv's rejection of the agreement may lead to a prolonged war, and Ukraine will be dependent on Europe for finances and arms supplies. The American administration believes that European public opinion may oppose high expenditures on supporting Ukraine in the face of the upcoming recession.
"Crimea will stay with Russia"
In an interview with "Time" magazine, Trump stated that "Crimea will stay with Russia." The US president also blamed Kyiv for starting the war, claiming that Ukraine's pursuit of NATO integration provoked Russia into attacking.
Zelensky firmly rejects the possibility of legally recognising the occupation of Crimea, emphasising that it would be contrary to the Ukrainian constitution.
