Trump tells Zelenskyy that Putin wants more of Ukraine, urges Kyiv make a deal
gmanetwork.com -- Saturday, August 16, 2025, 9:56:29 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, Social Media & Public Statements
WASHINGTON/MOSCOW/KYIV - US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that Ukraine should make a deal to end the war with Russia because "Russia is a very big power, and they're not", after a summit where Vladimir Putin was reported to have demanded more Ukrainian land.
After the two leaders met in Alaska on Friday, Trump told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Putin had offered to freeze most front lines if Kyiv ceded all of Donetsk, the industrial region that is one of Moscow's main targets, a source familiar with the matter said.
Zelenskyy rejected the demand, the source said. Russia already controls a fifth of Ukraine, including about three-quarters of Donetsk province, which it first entered in 2014.
Trump also said he agreed with Putin that a peace deal should be sought without the prior ceasefire that Ukraine and its European allies had demanded. That was a change from his position before the summit, when he said he would not be happy unless a ceasefire was agreed on.
"It was determined by all that the best way to end the horrific war between Russia and Ukraine is to go directly to a Peace Agreement, which would end the war, and not a mere Ceasefire Agreement, which often times do not hold up," Trump posted on Truth Social.
Zelenskyy said Russia's unwillingness to pause the fighting would complicate efforts to forge a lasting peace. "Stopping the killing is a key element of stopping the war," he said on X.
Nevertheless, Zelenskyy said he would meet Trump in Washington on Monday.
That will evoke memories of a meeting in the White House Oval Office in February, where Trump and Vice President JD Vance gave Zelenskyy a brutal public dressing-down. Trump said a three-way meeting with Putin and Zelenskyy could follow.
Kyiv's European allies welcomed Trump's efforts but vowed to back Ukraine and tighten sanctions on Russia. European leaders might join Monday's White House meeting as well, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said.
Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and has been gradually advancing for months. The war -- the deadliest in Europe for 80 years -- has killed or wounded well over a million people from both sides, including thousands of mostly Ukrainian civilians, according to analysts.
Russia likely to welcome Trump's comments
Trump's various comments on the three-hour meeting with Putin mostly aligned with the public positions of Moscow, which says a full settlement will be complex because positions are "diametrically opposed".
Putin signaled no movement in Russia's long-held demands, which also include a veto on Kyiv's desired membership in the NATO alliance. He made no mention in public of meeting Zelenskyy. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said a three-way summit had not been discussed.
In an interview with Fox News' Sean Hannity, Trump signaled that he and Putin had discussed land transfers and security guarantees for Ukraine, and had "largely agreed".
"I think we're pretty close to a deal," he said, adding: "Ukraine has to agree to it. Maybe they'll say 'no'."
Asked what he would advise Zelenskyy to do, Trump said: "Gotta make a deal."
"Look, Russia is a very big power, and they're not," he added.
Need for security guarantees for Ukraine
Zelenskyy has consistently said he cannot concede territory without changes to Ukraine's constitution, and Kyiv sees Donetsk's "fortress cities" such as Sloviansk and Kramatorsk as a bulwark against further Russian advances.
Zelenskyy has also insisted on security guarantees to deter Russia from invading again. He said he and Trump had discussed "positive signals" on the US taking part, and that Ukraine needed a lasting peace, not "just another pause" between Russian invasions.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed what he described as Trump's openness to providing security guarantees to Ukraine under a peace deal. He said security guarantees were "essential to any just and lasting peace."
Putin, who has opposed involving foreign ground forces, said he agreed with Trump that Ukraine's security must be "ensured".
For Putin, just sitting down with Trump represented a victory. He had been ostracized by Western leaders since the start of the war, and just a week earlier had faced a threat of new sanctions from Trump.
'1-0 for Putin'
Trump spoke to European leaders after returning to Washington. Several stressed the need to keep pressure on Russia.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said an end to the war was closer than ever, thanks to Trump, but said he would impose more sanctions on Russia if the war continues.
European leaders said in a statement that Ukraine must have "ironclad" security guarantees and no limits should be placed on its armed forces or right to seek NATO membership, as Russia has sought.
Some European commentators were scathing about the summit.
"Putin got his red carpet treatment with Trump, while Trump got nothing," Wolfgang Ischinger, former German ambassador to Washington, posted on X.
Both Russia and Ukraine carried out overnight air attacks, a daily occurrence, while fighting raged on the front.
Trump told Fox he would postpone imposing tariffs on China for buying Russian oil, but he might have to "think about it" in two or three weeks.
He ended his remarks after the summit by telling Putin: "We'll speak to you very soon and probably see you again very soon."
Sign Our PetitionThe ongoing conflict in Ukraine is a stark illustration of geopolitical power dynamics and the consequences of historical grievances. The recent comments made by former President Donald Trump, urging Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to consider making concessions to Russia, reflect a troubling trend in international relations where the might of a larger power is prioritized over the sovereignty and rights of a smaller nation. The idea that Ukraine should relinquish territory to appease Russia not only undermines the principles of self-determination and territorial integrity but also exposes a dangerous willingness to negotiate with a regime known for its aggression and disregard for international law.
Historically, the conflict can be traced back to Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, a blatant violation of Ukraine's sovereignty that was met with international condemnation and sanctions against Russia. This act marked the beginning of a broader conflict that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions. Trump's recent statements to Zelenskyy echo a long-standing pattern where powerful nations seek to reshape borders and influence smaller countries through coercion rather than diplomatic engagement. The implications of such rhetoric are not just theoretical; they resonate deeply with the ongoing struggles of nations that have faced imperialist ambitions and attempts at domination throughout history.
Moreover, the framing of Ukraine's situation as one where it must concede to a "more powerful" Russia allows for the normalization of aggression as a legitimate tool for conflict resolution. Trump's remarks suggesting that a peace agreement should take precedence over a ceasefire reveals a misunderstanding of the fundamental requirements for peace. As Zelenskyy articulated, stopping the violence is essential to any lasting peace, yet Trump's approach seems to sidestep the immediate need for a ceasefire, which is a critical first step in establishing a dialogue free from the pressures of ongoing conflict. This reflects a broader ignorance of the experiences of those who have lived through war and understand that peace cannot be achieved at the expense of justice.
In the context of social justice, the plight of the Ukrainian people must not be reduced to a mere bargaining chip in the grand game of international diplomacy. The suffering inflicted upon civilians, with estimates indicating over a million casualties and widespread devastation, underscores the urgency of a compassionate and rights-respecting approach to conflict resolution. It is essential for the international community, including European allies, to stand firmly with Ukraine, advocating for its right to self-determination and territorial integrity. The notion that negotiating with an aggressor to cede land is acceptable undermines the very principles of justice that many nations espouse.
Ultimately, Trump's comments serve as a reminder of the complexities of international relations, where power dynamics often overshadow moral imperatives. It is crucial for advocates of peace and justice to challenge narratives that promote compromise at the expense of fundamental rights. Rather than turning a blind eye to the realities of war, we must amplify the voices of those affected by it, demanding that their rights be upheld and respected. In doing so, we can work towards a future where diplomacy is rooted in justice, rather than capitulation, and where the sovereignty of nations is recognized and protected against the tides of aggression. This is not merely an issue of geopolitics but a fundamental question of human dignity and the right to live in peace.
The recent comments made by former President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine reveal a troubling willingness to overlook the rights and sovereignty of a nation under siege. His assertion that Ukraine should negotiate with Russia—one of the aggressors in this conflict—highlights a dangerous precedent where power dynamics overshadow the principles of international law and human rights. Historically, this echoes a pattern of appeasement that has been criticized for its effectiveness in conflict resolution, particularly when dealing with authoritarian regimes. The notion that Ukraine, a nation already suffering immense losses and territorial encroachments, should concede further territory to a belligerent neighbor undermines not only Ukraine’s sovereignty but also the broader international order established to prevent such aggressions.
From a political perspective, Trump's alignment with Putin's demands raises serious questions about the motivations and implications of such a stance. The former president’s comments could embolden Russia's expansionist ambitions, potentially setting a dangerous precedent for other authoritarian states contemplating similar actions. By advocating for a peace agreement without preconditions, such as a ceasefire, Trump appears to ignore the fundamental realities of the conflict—namely, that genuine peace cannot be brokered under the threat of continued violence and occupation. Historically, peace agreements that lack the support of both parties or are forced upon one side have often led to renewed hostilities and prolonged suffering. The international community must recognize that lasting peace is contingent upon a cessation of hostilities and a commitment to respecting national sovereignty.
As citizens of the United States, there are several actions we can take to counter these narratives and support a just resolution to the conflict. Firstly, engaging in informed discussions about the importance of upholding international law and human rights can help reshape the narrative surrounding the conflict in Ukraine. It is crucial to educate ourselves and others about the historical context of Russian aggression and the implications of appeasement. By sharing factual information and emphasizing the human cost of the conflict—over a million casualties and the displacement of millions—we can foster a more compassionate and informed public discourse.
Moreover, civic engagement through advocacy can amplify the voices of those affected by the war. Supporting organizations that provide humanitarian aid to Ukrainian civilians, advocating for continued military and diplomatic support for Ukraine, and opposing any rhetoric that suggests capitulation to aggressors are essential steps we can take as a community. Writing to elected officials to express our concerns about the rhetoric surrounding negotiations and pushing for policies that prioritize Ukraine’s sovereignty can also make a significant impact. Public pressure can influence policy decisions and ensure that U.S. support aligns with principles of self-determination and international cooperation.
Finally, fostering connections with our European allies, who have shown a commitment to supporting Ukraine, is vital. Encouraging collaborative efforts among nations to impose stricter sanctions on Russia, while simultaneously providing military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, reinforces a united front against aggression. By highlighting the need for solidarity among democratic nations in the face of authoritarianism, we can advocate for a robust international response that prioritizes peace and justice over expediency. Together, we can challenge narratives that seek to normalize territorial concessions and instead promote a vision of peace rooted in equity, justice, and respect for sovereignty.
The situation in Ukraine is not merely a geopolitical issue; it is a humanitarian crisis that calls for our collective action and unwavering support for those fighting for their freedom. By understanding the historical, political, and ethical dimensions of this conflict, we can engage in meaningful conversations and advocate for policies that reflect our commitment to justice and human rights, thereby countering the dangerous rhetoric that seeks to diminish the plight of the Ukrainian people.
The recent developments surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly the discussions between Trump, Zelenskyy, and Putin, highlight significant geopolitical tensions and the importance of international solidarity with Ukraine. Here are actionable steps individuals can take to voice their support for Ukraine and advocate for a peaceful resolution that respects its sovereignty.
### Personal Actions
1. **Educate Yourself and Others:** - Stay informed about the conflict through reputable news sources, academic articles, and expert analyses. Share this information with friends and family to raise awareness about the implications of the war and the importance of supporting Ukraine.
2. **Support Ukrainian Organizations:** - Contribute to humanitarian organizations working in Ukraine. Examples include: - **GlobalGiving:** Supports local NGOs providing aid. (Website: globalgiving.org) - **United Help Ukraine:** Provides medical and humanitarian aid. (Website: unitedhelpukraine.org)
3. **Engage with Local Communities:** - Join or create local groups focused on advocating for Ukraine. These could be humanitarian aid groups, peace advocacy organizations, or cultural exchange programs.
### Advocacy Actions
1. **Sign Petitions:** - Support petitions that call for stronger actions in favor of Ukraine's sovereignty. Websites like Change.org or Care2 often host relevant petitions. - Example Petition: "Urge Congress to Support Ukraine" on Change.org.
2. **Contact Elected Officials:** - Write to your Senators and Representatives to express your concerns. Here are some key figures: - **Senator Bob Menendez** (Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee) - Email: menendez.senate.gov/contact - Address: 528 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 - **Representative Michael McCaul** (Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee) - Email: mccaul.house.gov/contact - Address: 2217 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
- **What to say:** - Express your concern about the current discussions regarding a peace agreement that may compromise Ukraine's territorial integrity. - Urge them to support legislation that reinforces military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine and to advocate for a comprehensive ceasefire that respects Ukraine's sovereignty.
3. **Engage on Social Media:** - Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to share information, raise awareness, and mobilize support for Ukraine. Tag your elected officials in your posts to increase visibility.
4. **Attend Rallies and Events:** - Participate in local or national demonstrations that advocate for Ukraine. These events can serve as platforms for expressing solidarity and calling for continued support from governments.
5. **Write Opinion Pieces:** - Submit letters to the editor or opinion pieces to local newspapers emphasizing the importance of supporting Ukraine in light of the recent discussions. Share insights about the humanitarian crisis and the implications of conceding to aggressive demands.
6. **Organize Fundraisers:** - Host community events to raise funds for organizations supporting Ukraine, such as clothing drives or bake sales with proceeds going to humanitarian efforts.
### Conclusion
The situation in Ukraine is complex and requires sustained attention and action from individuals globally. By actively engaging in advocacy, educating oneself and others, and supporting organizations that provide assistance, we can contribute to the ongoing effort to support Ukraine during this critical period.