Trump Calls Putin “Very Smart,” Says Russia Must Make Concessions in Ongoing War

U.S. President Donald Trump described Russian leader Vladimir Putin as a “very smart guy” during remarks at the start of a cabinet meeting on February 26.

Trump suggested that, in his view, Putin never intended to seek a negotiated settlement to the war in Ukraine. “I think he wanted the whole thing,” Trump stated, implying that Russia’s original goal was full control of Ukraine.

When asked whether Putin would have to make concessions in order to resolve Russia’s war against Ukraine, Trump confirmed, “He will have to.”

On the same day, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the United States would not provide Ukraine with “too many” security guarantees, emphasizing that this should primarily be Europe’s responsibility.