Trump Says Zelenskyy ‘Not Ready for Peace’ After White House Meeting

Washington, D.C. – Former President Donald Trump claimed on Thursday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is “not ready for peace” if the United States remains involved in negotiations, following a meeting at the White House.

In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump described the discussion as “very meaningful” but suggested that Zelenskyy views U.S. support as a bargaining tool rather than a path to ending the war.

“It’s amazing what comes out through emotion,” Trump wrote. “I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations. I don’t want advantage, I want PEACE.”

Trump also accused Zelenskyy of disrespecting the United States during their meeting in the Oval Office, adding, “He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”

The statement marks a stark contrast to the Biden administration’s stance, which has pledged continued military and financial support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s invasion. Trump, who has frequently criticized U.S. aid to Ukraine, has suggested he could broker a peace deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin within “24 hours” if re-elected.

Zelenskyy has not publicly responded to Trump’s remarks, but the Ukrainian leader has consistently argued that ongoing American support is crucial in resisting Russian aggression.

The meeting and Trump’s statement come amid broader debates in Washington over U.S. aid to Ukraine, with Republican lawmakers divided on continued funding for Kyiv.

This is a developing story.