In a series of recent developments surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, former US President Donald Trump claimed significant progress in peace negotiations. Over the past month, Trump asserted that his efforts had surpassed those made in the previous three years. This claim comes amid heightened international scrutiny and diplomatic maneuvers, including a United Nations General Assembly resolution condemning Russian aggression in Ukraine. Despite this, the US notably voted against the resolution, raising concerns about its stance on the issue.
Trump responded to French President Emmanuel Macron's warning about prioritizing peace, stating, "If you believe that, it’s OK with me." He further suggested deploying European troops to Ukraine as peacekeepers, an idea he reportedly discussed with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Macron supported this notion, offering security guarantees to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire and emphasizing Europe's central role in ensuring Ukraine's long-term security.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected US demands for $500 billion in mineral wealth as repayment for wartime aid. Meanwhile, Trump and his team have been negotiating a minerals revenue-sharing agreement with Ukraine to recoup funds previously sent to Kyiv. Trump downplayed the extent of US aid to Ukraine, claiming it was nowhere near $500 billion.
Trump's controversial remarks included falsely blaming Ukraine for initiating the conflict and branding Zelenskyy a "dictator." Despite these statements, Trump maintained that European involvement in peace talks could be beneficial. He suggested potential meetings with Zelenskyy to finalize the minerals deal, while Macron emphasized that Europe was loaning money to Ukraine, not the US.
"Just so you understand, Europe is loaning the money to Ukraine. They’re getting their money back." – Donald Trump
Macron elaborated on Europe's financial involvement, stating that they had contributed significantly to the effort against Russian aggression.
"No, in fact, to be frank, we paid. We paid 60% of the total effort. It was like the US: loans, guarantees, grants. We have $230bn in frozen assets in Europe, Russian assets. But this is not collateral of a loan because it is not our belonging. So they are frozen." – Emmanuel Macron
Trump's assertion that Europe would recoup its financial contributions contrasts with his earlier criticism of US expenditures.
"If you believe that, it’s OK with me. They get their money back, and we don’t. But now we do." – Donald Trump
Both leaders highlighted their mutual understanding on critical issues.
“I believe that Emmanuel agrees with me on many of the most important issues,” – Donald Trump
Macron echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their joint progress in diplomatic efforts.
“I think he and I have made very substantive steps forward” – Emmanuel Macron
The proposal for European peacekeepers gained traction as Putin signaled openness to European involvement in negotiations. Trump's discussions with Putin reportedly laid the groundwork for this initiative.
“I’ve asked him that question. He has no problem with it.” – Donald Trump
Trump expressed optimism about achieving a ceasefire and ultimately restoring peace in Ukraine.
“It’s time to end this bloodletting and restore peace. We’ve had some great conversations, including with Russia … Our focus is on achieving a ceasefire as soon as possible and ultimately a lasting peace.” – Donald Trump
Highlighting his role in reviving diplomatic channels with Russia, Trump noted the initial lack of communication prior to his efforts.
“Before I came here there was no communication with Russia whatsoever. Russia was not answering calls… But when I got here one of the first calls I made was to President Putin and we were treated with great respect and they want to end this war, so that’s a big thing.” – Donald Trump
Macron reinforced the importance of securing peace without compromising Ukraine's sovereignty.
“must not mean a surrender of Ukraine or ceasefire without guarantees” – Emmanuel Macron