Trump says he is working to end Russia-Ukraine war
President Donald Trump told lawmakers in a joint session of Congress that he is “working tirelessly” to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, stating that Moscow has shown strong signals of wanting peace.
On Tuesday, Trump read from a letter he received earlier in the day from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in which Zelensky expressed willingness to work “under” Trump’s leadership to achieve peace.
Trump’s nearly two-hour speech highlighted his administration’s actions over the past two months, covering immigration, the economy, trade, healthcare, education, and law enforcement.
“I am also working tirelessly to end the savage conflict in Ukraine,” Trump said. “Millions of Ukrainians and Russians have been needlessly killed or wounded in this horrific and brutal conflict, with no end in sight. The United States has sent hundreds of billions of dollars to support Ukraine’s defense, while Europe has spent more money buying Russian oil and gas than on defending Ukraine—by far! And Biden has authorized more spending in this fight than Europe has contributed.”
He then read a letter from Zelensky:
“I received an important letter from President Zelensky of Ukraine,” Trump said. “The letter reads: ‘Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than the Ukrainians.’”
Quoting further, Trump added, “He (Zelensky) said, ‘My team and I stand ready to work under President Trump’s strong leadership to get a peace that lasts. We truly value all that America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence. Regarding the agreement on minerals and security, Ukraine is ready to sign it at any time that is convenient for you.’ I appreciate that he sent this letter.”
Trump did not provide his response to Zelensky’s outreach, which comes after a tense Oval Office exchange between the Ukrainian leader and Trump administration officials last Friday.
“Simultaneously,” Trump added, “we’ve had serious discussions with Russia and have received strong signals that they are ready for peace. Wouldn’t that be beautiful?”
