Trump Warns 'Big Trouble' for Russia If Putin Rejects Ukraine Deal, Says 'Meeting Being Set Up'
#donaldtrump #vladimirputin #russiaukrainewar
On 20 Jan. 2025, US President Donald Trump, during his inauguration press statement, criticised Russian President Vladimir Putin for refusing to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, stating that Putin was "destroying Russia". Trump claimed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was eager for a peace agreement, despite prior criticism of Zelensky. He highlighted Russia's economic struggles, including inflation, and expressed readiness to meet Putin, recalling their controversial 2018 summit. Russian President Putin welcomed dialogue but emphasised the need for a long-term peace respecting all regional interests. French President Macron and Turkish President Erdogan voiced scepticism about a swift resolution, with Macron advocating continued support for Ukraine to negotiate from strength. Reactions in Moscow and Ukraine varied, with some doubting Trump’s capacity to end the war but acknowledging his unpredictable nature.