Trump claims progress in Ukraine peace talks, plans Putin chat

The former president stated on Monday that discussions would be held with President Putin, President Zelensky, and other Ukrainian representatives, emphasizing the urgent need to put an end to the ongoing bloodshed.

He stressed that the sheer loss of life on both sides is staggering, with human lives being the only barrier to bullets. He pointed out that the situation is far more devastating than commonly reported, impacting both sides deeply.

He added that "Zelensky should prepare to make a deal to end the war in Ukraine."

He observed that while it's often stated that Ukraine aims to reclaim its territory, many of these cities are largely in ruins. He suggested that Russia's withdrawal from Kyiv might indicate plans to occupy it in the future, though they have not taken that step yet.

Later, when asked if he believes Ukraine should surrender its territories to Russia, he responded that "he will let us know after the first meeting" with Vladimir Putin. He again highlighted the scale of destruction.

He highlighted that some towns are so devastated that no buildings remain intact, making it impossible for residents to return. He also mentioned that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky seeks peace.

According to Trump, rebuilding the Ukrainian cities destroyed by the Russian Federation could take 100 years.

Trump also said he considers the Biden administration's decision to allow Ukraine to use American weapons to strike on Russian territory as "inappropriate and stupid," and does not rule out that he might change it.

Trump stated that he is "trying hard" and working every day to "end all these wars." He also announced that he will meet with both Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky, though once again refused to answer whether, as "The Washington Post" reported, he has already spoken by phone with the Russian president.