Former President Donald Trump stated that Russia desires Ukraine’s success, alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago resort. Following extensive peace discussions, Trump told reporters that Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed positive sentiments regarding Ukraine’s prosperity, even suggesting Russia might offer energy supplies at reduced prices. This declaration from Trump comes amid ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine, with reports detailing a bombing in Sloviansk that resulted in casualties on the same day as the meeting. Zelenskyy highlighted the intensity of recent Russian aggression, noting over 2,100 attack drones, hundreds of bombs, and numerous missiles launched in a single week, primarily targeting civilian life and energy infrastructure. Trump, who hosted Zelenskyy for dinner, also suggested the potential for a future trilateral meeting involving himself, Putin, and Zelenskyy, believing Putin is eager for such an engagement. Trump referenced their lengthy phone call, during which they discussed various topics, including the ‘Russia, Russia, Russia hoax.’ He expressed optimism about a peace agreement, describing it as being ‘very close,’ though he acknowledged the talks are complex and prone to unexpected hurdles, offering a vague timeline of ‘a few weeks’ for clarity. Trump indicated he would speak with Putin after his meeting with Zelenskyy concluded. Zelenskyy, meanwhile, shared on social media that his teams, alongside U.S. counterparts, aim to finalize a 20-point peace plan next week, emphasizing security guarantees as crucial for enduring peace. He also mentioned an agreement for Trump to host Ukrainian and European leaders in Washington, D.C., in January.
