US President Donald Trump says Russia and Ukraine may be moving closer to a negotiated settlement, citing his belief that both leaders want the war to end. However, major diplomatic and security questions remain unresolved as fighting continues.
US President Donald Trump says a negotiated settlement to end the war between Russia and Ukraine could be within reach, expressing confidence that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are ready to bring the conflict to an end.
Trump has pointed to the mounting human cost of the war, estimating that approximately 25,000 people, mostly soldiers, are being killed each month on both sides. He has described the continuing casualties as a major reason for renewed efforts to secure a settlement.
The US president’s remarks come amid renewed diplomatic engagement involving Washington, Moscow and Kyiv. US special envoy Steve Witkoff has held discussions with Ukrainian officials and travelled to Moscow for talks with Putin, as the Trump administration seeks to advance negotiations.
Trump has also highlighted the case of Stephen Hubbard, a 74-year-old American detained in Russia, saying he raised the matter with Putin. The case has become another issue in discussions between Washington and Moscow, alongside efforts to end the war.
Despite the renewed diplomatic activity, a comprehensive peace agreement has yet to be reached. Questions surrounding territorial control, Ukraine’s future security arrangements and the terms of any ceasefire remain central to the negotiations.
Russia has continued its military campaign in Ukraine, while Kyiv has maintained that any settlement must address its security and territorial concerns. European governments have also been involved in discussions about possible security guarantees and the framework for a lasting peace.
Trump’s latest comments signal optimism from the White House, but the path to an agreement remains uncertain. Any lasting settlement will depend on the terms accepted by both Moscow and Kyiv, as well as the arrangements put in place to prevent renewed fighting.
