President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed plans for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the need to end the prolonged conflict in Ukraine. Speaking at a gathering with Republican governors at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump stated, “He wants to meet, and we’re setting it up.” This announcement comes just days before Trump is set to assume office, following his campaign promises to address the crisis in Ukraine, which has been under Russian invasion since 2022.
Trump labeled the war in Ukraine as a “bloody mess” and underscored the urgency of bringing the conflict to an end. However, he has yet to outline any concrete proposals for a ceasefire or peace settlement. Throughout his campaign, Trump has often criticized the substantial military aid provided by the United States to Ukraine, which has exceeded $65 billion under President Joe Biden’s administration.
The former president’s stance on the war has raised eyebrows in Washington, particularly his refusal to criticize Putin and his disparaging remarks about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whom he referred to as a “salesman.” Trump’s rhetoric has sparked debates about the future of U.S. involvement in NATO and its support for Ukraine, with the president-elect expressing skepticism about continued military alliances and aid commitments.
Putin, according to reports from the Kremlin, is open to discussions with Trump. The proposed meeting signals a potential shift in diplomatic relations between the United States and Russia, with both leaders poised to discuss the war’s resolution and other geopolitical concerns. Critics, however, remain cautious, questioning the implications of Trump’s admiration for Putin on global security and U.S. foreign policy.
