Trump Sees Path to End Ukraine Conflict as Zelenskyy Secures Defence Deal

US President Donald Trump stated on October 20, 2023, that ending the ongoing war in Ukraine remains achievable, despite referring to the conflict as “nasty.” This comment came during a press conference at the White House, where Trump highlighted the animosity between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump emphasized the United States’ continued efforts to broker peace between the two nations.

“I think we’ll get there,” Trump told reporters, adding that the situation is complicated by the deep-seated hatred between the leaders involved. He mentioned his recent discussions with Putin, specifically addressing Russian attacks on civilians, stating, “Did I tell him to stop? I did.” Trump reiterated his commitment to resolving the conflict, reflecting on his initial pledge to end the war “immediately” when he took office ten months prior.

Zelenskyy’s Positive Outlook on Meeting

President Zelenskyy described his meeting with Trump as “positive” and downplayed any reports of tension during their discussions. Speaking to Ukrainian media, he noted that the talks lasted over two hours and conveyed optimism about the message he received from Trump. “His message, in my view, is positive — that we stand where we stand on the front line,” Zelenskyy remarked.

During the meeting, Zelenskyy announced a significant development: Ukraine is preparing a multi-year contract to acquire 25 Patriot air defence systems. This acquisition marks a crucial advancement in bolstering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities against ongoing Russian missile strikes. Although Zelenskyy sought Tomahawk missiles for long-range operations, he acknowledged that Trump was cautious about making decisions that might provoke further tensions with Putin ahead of the anticipated summit between the two leaders.

Trump confirmed that discussions on the provision of weapons were “a little more complicated,” emphasizing his desire for both sides to agree to a truce. He expressed uncertainty about Ukraine’s prospects, stating, “I don’t think they will [win], but they could still win it. War is a very strange thing.”

Preparations for Trump-Putin Summit

Earlier that day, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov engaged in talks regarding preparations for the upcoming Trump-Putin summit in Budapest. According to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott, Rubio underscored the significance of these discussions as a chance for Moscow and Washington to work together towards a sustainable resolution of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Zelenskyy expressed his openness to participate in the Budapest talks if invited but criticized the choice of venue. He remarked that Hungary’s political stance should not influence peace negotiations regarding Ukraine. “If I am invited to Budapest — if it is an invitation in a format where we meet as three, or shuttle diplomacy where President Trump meets with Putin and then with me — we will agree,” he stated.

In light of the planned summit, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support but cautioned that both Ukraine and Europe must be included in the discussions. He warned against a repeat of what he termed “another Budapest scenario,” emphasizing the necessity of broader international involvement in resolving the conflict.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely, hopeful that the dialogues between the leaders may pave the way for a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.