Trump-Putin Meeting: Trump Says Up To Zelensky To Make Deal After Summit With Putin
ndtvprofit.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 10:27:41 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S.–Russia Relations, Media Coverage & Press Relations

US President Donald Trump called his meeting with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin productive but indicated that a path to end the war had still not been finalized, adding that he would speak to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and tell him to make a deal.
In an interview with Fox News' Sean Hannity after the summit Trump said that there were a few sticking points remaining after his discussion with Putin, even as he cautioned that the two had not reached a deal, and shifted his focus to Zelensky, saying it was up to him to resolve the war.
"There's one or two pretty significant items but I think they can be reached," Trump said in the interview. "It's really up to President Zelensky to get it done. And I would also say the European nations, they have to get involved a little bit, but it's up to President Zelensky."
Asked what his advice to the Ukrainian leader would be, Trump responded, "make a deal, make the deal."
Trump's comments follow a highly-anticipated summit that ended up with the Russian and US presidents holding their longest ever face-to-face meeting with each other. But despite their extended conversation neither leader provided clear details on their discussion, a move that may intensify anxiety in European capitals and in Kyiv about an agreement that sidelines their input.
Trump also said in the interview that he was looking to set up a meeting between Putin and Zelensky.
"They both want me there, and I'll be there. You got to see it out. And it is a big day. I think either way, it's a big day. But if we get this solved, it's a really big day, because we're going to save a lot of lives," he said.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent meeting between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin has stirred a complex mix of geopolitical implications and historical context that is crucial for understanding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump's assertion that it is "up to President Zelensky to make a deal" not only reflects a troubling simplification of the conflict but also underscores a broader trend in international relations where powerful nations often sideline the voices of smaller countries in the pursuit of deals that serve their interests. This dynamic resonates with historical examples where diplomacy has failed to consider the agency and sovereignty of those most directly affected by conflict.
Historically, the relationship between the United States and Russia has been fraught with tension and manipulation, particularly in the post-Cold War era. The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to a series of conflicts in Eastern Europe, with NATO expansions and Western interventions often exacerbating tensions rather than alleviating them. Trump’s approach to the Ukrainian situation appears to echo this historical pattern—focusing on negotiations between powerful leaders while neglecting the voices of those who are actually fighting for their sovereignty and national integrity. This tendency can be traced back to the Yalta Conference in 1945, where great powers made decisions about Europe’s future without considering the aspirations of the nations involved, setting a precedent that has had devastating consequences for regional stability.
Central to the ongoing Ukrainian conflict is the struggle for self-determination and national sovereignty. The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2014 and the subsequent war have resulted in significant loss of life and displacement, with millions of Ukrainians forced from their homes. Trump's comments imply a reduction of this multifaceted crisis into a mere transactional negotiation, overlooking the profound human cost and the agency of those who have endured this conflict firsthand. The insistence that Zelensky should simply "make a deal" could be interpreted as a call for capitulation rather than a genuine pursuit of a resolution that respects Ukraine’s territorial integrity and the rights of its citizens.
Moreover, Trump’s framing of the situation raises important questions about the role of European allies in the peace process. By suggesting that European nations need to become more involved, yet simultaneously placing the onus on Zelensky, Trump dilutes the accountability of larger geopolitical players who have historically played a role in either exacerbating or resolving conflicts. The European Union has a vested interest in the stability of Eastern Europe, and its leaders must grapple with their historical legacies, including colonialism and imperialism, that have shaped current dynamics. The call for a more active European role should not only be about facilitating negotiations but also about understanding the historical contexts and injustices that have led to the current state of affairs.
Finally, it is essential to recognize that the rhetoric surrounding this conflict reflects broader societal struggles, particularly in terms of how conflicts are perceived and resolved globally. The insistence on negotiation without a full-throated acknowledgment of the needs of the Ukrainian people can lead to a dangerous precedent where the rights and desires of smaller nations are continuously overridden by the interests of larger powers. Advocates for peace must push for a diplomatic framework that prioritizes human rights, justice, and the voices of those who have been marginalized in these conversations. By engaging in discussions that address not only the geopolitical implications but also the social justice dimensions of conflicts such as the one in Ukraine, we can work towards a more equitable and humane approach to international diplomacy.
The recent summit between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin has reignited discussions about the U.S. role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump's comments, which suggest that the resolution of the war is primarily in the hands of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, raise critical questions about the responsibilities of global leaders, the role of the United States in foreign policy, and the implications of such a power dynamic on the sovereignty of nations. By shifting responsibility to Zelensky and suggesting that the resolution of the conflict is a matter of negotiating a deal, Trump not only downplays the complex geopolitical landscape but also the dire human cost that the war has inflicted on the Ukrainian people.
Historically, the U.S. has positioned itself as a champion of democracy and self-determination. This legacy is complicated, however, by instances where American foreign policy has undermined these principles, such as in the case of the Iraq War or interventions in Latin America. Trump's insistence that Zelensky take the lead in negotiating peace with Putin reflects a trend in U.S. foreign policy that often prioritizes expedient solutions over the long-term stability and agency of nations involved. The reality on the ground in Ukraine is that any agreement reached under duress or without comprehensive international support risks being seen as illegitimate by the Ukrainian populace, potentially leading to further instability.
As citizens of a nation that has historically wielded considerable influence on the global stage, we must advocate for a more engaged and responsible approach to international relations. It is critical that Americans not only hold their leaders accountable for the narratives they propagate but also demand that foreign policy reflect a commitment to international law and human rights. This means encouraging our representatives to support diplomatic efforts that involve all stakeholders, including the European nations that Trump mentioned, rather than sidelining them in discussions that directly impact their security and interests. Engaging in grassroots activism, writing to representatives, and advocating for policies that prioritize diplomacy over unilateral action can create a more just global order.
Moreover, educating ourselves and others about the complexities of international relations, including the historical context of the Ukraine crisis, is essential. The conflict in Ukraine is rooted in a long history of territorial disputes, national identity, and geopolitical struggles between Russia and Western powers. Understanding these nuances can help us articulate more compelling arguments in discussions with those who may hold different views. By framing the narrative around the need for collaborative solutions that respect the sovereignty of nations, we can counter simplistic proposals that ignore the harsh realities faced by those living in conflict zones.
Finally, we must recognize the human aspects of war. Trump's comments about saving lives highlight a critical truth: every decision made by leaders in high-stakes negotiations has real consequences for individuals affected by conflict. It is imperative that we center the voices of those directly impacted by war, particularly Ukrainians, as they navigate their future amidst external pressures. Supporting organizations that provide aid to war-torn areas, amplifying the stories of civilians affected by the conflict, and fostering dialogue that prioritizes empathy and understanding can help shift the narrative away from transactional politics and towards a more compassionate and informed approach to international issues. In doing so, we not only advocate for peace but also reaffirm our commitment to a moral foreign policy that upholds the dignity of all people.
The recent meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, as discussed in the article, raises significant concerns about the ongoing war in Ukraine and the potential sidelining of Ukrainian interests. Here are some actionable steps we can take to influence the situation positively and advocate for a just resolution.
### 1. **Raise Awareness and Educate Others** - **Organize Community Discussions**: Host or attend community forums or discussions about the implications of the Trump-Putin meeting on Ukraine. Use local libraries, community centers, or online platforms to facilitate these discussions. - **Share Information**: Utilize social media platforms to share articles, analyses, and personal insights about the situation in Ukraine, emphasizing the impact of international diplomacy on the conflict.
### 2. **Engage with Elected Officials** - **Write to Your Representatives**: Contact your local and state representatives to express your concerns about the potential sidelining of Ukraine in negotiations. - **Example Contacts**: - **Speaker of the House**: Kevin McCarthy (email: kevin.mccarthy@mail.house.gov) - **Senator**: Elizabeth Warren (email: warren.senate.gov/contact) - **Senator**: Chuck Schumer (email: schumer.senate.gov/contact) - **What to Say**: Emphasize the importance of supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and ensuring that Ukrainian voices are included in any negotiations. Request that they advocate for continued support for Ukraine in the form of humanitarian aid and military assistance.
### 3. **Support Ukrainian Organizations** - **Donate to NGOs**: Contribute to organizations that support Ukrainian people, such as Razom for Ukraine or the Ukrainian Red Cross. This helps provide immediate assistance to those affected by the conflict. - **Volunteer**: Get involved with local organizations that support Ukrainian refugees or those assisting with humanitarian efforts.
### 4. **Sign and Share Petitions** - **Petition for Support of Ukraine**: Sign petitions that advocate for a strong U.S. stance on supporting Ukraine in negotiations. - **Example**: Visit Change.org or MoveOn.org to find relevant petitions, such as "Support Ukraine’s Sovereignty" or "Demand Transparent Negotiations for Peace in Ukraine." - **Create a Petition**: If you notice a lack of attention to specific issues, consider creating a petition that calls for action, detailing the importance of including Ukraine in peace discussions.
### 5. **Contact Relevant Organizations** - **Reach Out to Think Tanks and Advocacy Groups**: Contact organizations that specialize in foreign policy and human rights, such as the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) or Human Rights Watch, to express your concerns and seek guidance on advocacy. - **Example Contact**: - **CSIS**: (202) 775-3242; info@csis.org
### 6. **Engage with Media** - **Write Op-Eds or Letters to the Editor**: Share your perspective on local or national media platforms to raise awareness about the potential ramifications of sidelining Ukraine in negotiations. - **Contact Journalists**: Reach out to journalists covering the situation and provide insights or personal stories that highlight the urgency of inclusive negotiations.
### 7. **Participate in Peaceful Demonstrations** - **Join or Organize Rallies**: Participate in or help organize rallies that advocate for peace in Ukraine and support for its sovereignty. Connect with local activist groups or online communities to find upcoming events.
### 8. **Support Diplomatic Efforts** - **Encourage Diplomatic Solutions**: In your communications with officials, advocate for a diplomatic approach that includes all stakeholders, particularly Ukrainian leadership. Emphasize the importance of transparency and the need for negotiations that reflect the interests of the Ukrainian people.
By taking these steps, we can collectively advocate for a more just and inclusive resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, ensuring that the voices of those directly affected are heard and prioritized in international discussions.