Washington: US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism that a resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war may be within reach, saying peace efforts are “getting closer than people realise” following separate conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said both leaders had conveyed a desire to end the conflict, which has continued for more than four years. He added that the Ukraine issue would be a key agenda during the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey, where he is scheduled to hold further discussions with world leaders.
Trump said he recently held a “good” telephone conversation with President Putin and believes the Russian leader wants the war to end. He also noted that President Zelensky is now equally interested in bringing the conflict to a close.
Despite Trump’s optimistic remarks, Russia launched fresh missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and surrounding areas, causing significant casualties and damage. The continued violence underscores the challenges facing any potential peace initiative.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin said Moscow’s position on resolving the conflict remains unchanged, while Ukrainian officials have indicated that recent military gains have strengthened Kyiv’s position in any future negotiations.