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Trump on Ukraine: putting pressure on Zelensky and calling for elections

Трамп щодо України: тисне на Зеленського та закликає до виборів Photo: ХВИЛЯ

Donald Trump's comments on the war in Ukraine

U.S. President Donald Trump, in an interview that took place on December 8, 2025, at the White House, expressed his thoughts on Russia's war against Ukraine, emphasizing the role of President Volodymyr Zelensky and the necessity of holding presidential elections in Ukraine. Trump noted that Russia has an advantage in negotiations and pointed out that Ukraine has already lost significant territories due to the conflict.

In his interview, Trump commented on the situation with Crimea, stating that the previous U.S. administration under Barack Obama 'handed' Crimea over to Russia. He also emphasized the importance of U.S. support for Ukraine, noting that Zelensky 'extracted $350 billion from Biden.' Trump stressed that the current situation in Ukraine requires urgent changes and called for presidential elections, asserting:

'In your opinion, the Ukrainian people should have the opportunity to hold presidential elections.' - Donald Trump

Trump also expressed the view that the situation in Ukraine is critical, stating:

'You certainly wouldn't say this is a victory.' - Donald Trump

He emphasized that Zelensky 'needs to start taking action because he is losing,' pointing to the necessity for active measures from the Ukrainian leadership. Commenting on the relationship between Putin and Zelensky, Trump noted: 'Putin and Zelensky hate each other,' which, in his opinion, complicates peace negotiations.

Assessment of the situation in Ukraine

Trump characterized the current stage of the conflict as 'a major turning point in the development of a conflict that has been stinking since 2014,' emphasizing the duration and complexity of the situation. Overall, his comments indicate that he believes it is necessary to increase pressure on the Ukrainian leadership in order to find pathways for resolving the conflict and improving the situation in Ukraine.

The statements of President Trump reflect not only his views on the current state of the war in Ukraine but also highlight the importance of international support for Ukraine. Given the prolonged conflict situation, his call for presidential elections may signify a desire for stability and legitimacy in Ukrainian leadership. Analyzing his comments may indicate potential changes in U.S. foreign policy towards Ukraine and efforts to find new approaches to resolving the conflict.