- Category
- Latest news
Trump to Zelenskyy: “I Don’t Think You Need a Ceasefire” During White House Talks
- Authors
![Photo of Liubava Petriv]( "Photo of Liubava Petriv")
On August 18, US President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House. During the talks, Trump addressed the question of a ceasefire in Ukraine, noting that discussions should move toward a broader peace deal.
“I don’t think you need a ceasefire,” Trump said. “I like the concept of a ceasefire for one reason, because you’d stop killing people immediately … but we can work a deal where we’re working on a peace deal while they’re fighting.”
He added, “They have to fight. I wish they could stop. I’d like them to stop, but strategically, that could be a disadvantage for one side or the other.”
Analysts have suggested that postponing a ceasefire may benefit Russia by allowing it to continue military operations while slowing negotiations.
Trump also said he planned to speak with Russian leader Vladimir Putin following his meeting with Zelenskyy: “He is expecting my call when we’re finished with this meeting.”
On the same day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with European leaders ahead of talks with US President Donald Trump at the White House, where he highlighted Ukraine’s aim for a stable and lasting peace for the country and for Europe.
