In a bold declaration following three-way talks in Paris, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is open to a “deal” to end the ongoing war with Russia. The statement marks Trump’s most explicit comments yet on Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate peace.
The discussions, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace, have fueled speculation about Trump’s intentions regarding U.S. support for Ukraine. Trump has been a vocal critic of the current level of military aid, calling it unsustainable and pledging to resolve the conflict swiftly upon taking office.
“Zelensky Wants to Stop the Madness”
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump emphasized Zelensky’s desire to end the war:
“Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness. There should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin. Too many lives are being so needlessly wasted, too many families destroyed, and if it keeps going, it can turn into something much bigger, and far worse.”
While Trump painted the discussions as productive, the U.S. Department of Defense simultaneously announced a $988 million military assistance package for Ukraine, signaling a continued commitment to arming Kyiv under the outgoing Biden administration.
Zelensky’s Call for a “Just Peace”
Despite Trump’s characterization of Ukraine’s readiness to negotiate, Zelensky was careful to frame any peace as contingent on fairness and security for Ukraine:
“We all want peace. But it is very important for us… that the peace is just for all of us and that Russia, Putin, or any other aggressor has no possibility of ever returning,” Zelensky stated via the presidential website.
Zelensky also thanked Trump for his “unwavering resolve,” describing the talks as “good and productive,” but stopped short of endorsing Trump’s proposed approach.
Macron’s Role as Mediator
French President Emmanuel Macron used the opportunity to deepen his understanding of Trump’s foreign policy direction. The visit offered Macron a glimpse into how Trump might handle the Ukraine crisis when he assumes office in January, with Macron writing on social media:
“Let us continue our joint efforts for peace and security.”
Macron also emphasized his longstanding relationship with Trump, recalling solidarity during the 2019 Notre Dame fire. Trump attended the re-opening of the iconic cathedral as part of his first international visit since winning the election on November 5.
Europe Watches Closely
Trump’s statements in Paris reflect a potential pivot in U.S. foreign policy, with European leaders watching closely. His call for an immediate ceasefire signals a potential departure from President Joe Biden’s staunch military backing for Ukraine and raises questions about the future of NATO’s collective strategy.
Trump’s alignment with Zelensky’s apparent willingness to negotiate could reframe the conflict’s trajectory, but critics warn that concessions to Russia may embolden aggressors globally.
As Trump prepares to take office, his approach to Ukraine will likely become a defining feature of his second term, with major implications for U.S. alliances and global security.
