In a recent meeting between former President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, described by Trump as “beautiful,” Zelenskyy reportedly expressed a need for additional weaponry. The 15-minute discussion, held at St Peter’s Basilica, focused on various issues, including the ongoing conflict with Russia. Trump reiterated his disappointment over Russia’s missile strikes on Kyiv and voiced uncertainty about President Vladimir Putin’s genuine interest in pursuing peace.
Before leaving New Jersey, where he spent the weekend at his golf club, Trump reflected on the meeting’s outcomes, suggesting that developments could emerge in the coming days. He conveyed frustration regarding ongoing missile launches from Russia, stating, “I was very disappointed that missiles were flying by Russia.”
During their discussions, the topic of Crimea also came to light, with Trump noting that the U.S. would recognise it as Russian in a peace proposal that Zelenskyy has thus far declined. Trump maintained that his rapport with Zelenskyy remained intact despite earlier tensions, describing a televised incident from February as a minor hurdle.
Trump’s comments about Zelenskyy highlighted a perceived shift, suggesting that the Ukrainian leader was more composed and open to negotiations. “I see him as calmer. I think he understands the picture. And I think he wants to make a deal,” he remarked. He called on Putin to actively commit to ending the war, expressing a desire for a cessation of hostilities, saying, “I want him to stop shooting, sit down and sign a deal.”
In summary, the meeting highlighted the ongoing complexities of the Ukraine-Russia situation, with Trump advocating for peace and a resolution while expressing clear frustrations with military actions.