David Awoyode
Former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a striking rebuke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, declaring that Ukraine will not join NATO and that Crimea will not be returned to Ukrainian control. Trump insisted Zelensky could “end the war with Russia almost immediately” if he chose to.
Social Media Statement Sparks Tensions
On Truth Social, Trump wrote:
“President Zelenskyy of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight. Remember how it started — Obama gave up Crimea without a shot fired, and there is NO NATO membership for Ukraine. Some things never change!”
Zelensky Pushes Back
Responding on X, Zelensky rejected Trump’s framing, stating:
“Peace must be lasting. Russia must end this war, which it itself started. Ukrainians are fighting for their land, for their independence.”
He emphasized that Crimea should never have been ceded, recalling how Putin used the annexation as a springboard for further attacks.
Looming White House Showdown
Zelensky is scheduled to meet Trump in Washington on Monday, their first encounter since a heated Oval Office dispute in February. At that time, Trump accused him of “gambling with World War III” and top aides asked Zelensky to leave the White House.
European Leaders Rally to Zelensky’s Side
Amid fears that Trump could strong-arm Zelensky into concessions, leaders from Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Finland will join the Ukrainian president in Washington. Analysts believe their presence is meant to prevent a repeat of February’s clash and counterbalance Trump’s pressure.
Trump Meets Putin in Alaska Beforehand
The Washington talks come just days after Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska for a 2.5-hour discussion. While no deal was reached, Trump said they had a “very good chance” of progress.
Diplomatic sources suggest the talks leaned toward Putin’s terms: Ukraine would give up NATO membership and potentially surrender parts of Donbas.
Zelensky Rejects Ceasefire Trap
Zelensky warned against agreeing to a ceasefire under fire, saying it would allow Russia to regroup and continue strikes until full demands were met.
“It’s impossible to do this under the pressure of weapons,” he argued. “Putin does not want to stop the killing — but he must do it.”
