**US President Donald Trump Says Russia and Ukraine Want Peace, Has Deadline for Deal**
In a recent meeting with the Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, US President Donald Trump expressed his optimism that both Russia and Ukraine want peace. However, he emphasized that they need to “get to the table” to finalize a deal.
“We are thinking very strongly that they both want peace,” Trump said. “But they have to get to the table. We’ve been waiting a long time. They have to get to the table. And I think we’re going to get peace.”
Trump also mentioned that he has set a deadline for reaching a peace deal, but did not elaborate on what would happen if this deadline is missed.
“I have my own deadline,” he said. “… And after that, we’re going to have a very much different attitude. But I think we have a very good chance of getting (a peace deal) done.”
The comments come as the US pushes for a ceasefire in Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Trump has warned earlier this week that the US may withdraw from the mediation process if no progress is made in the coming days.
**US Peace Proposal Sparking Controversy**
Ukraine is under pressure to respond to a controversial US peace proposal, first presented in Paris on April 17. The plan includes US recognition of Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and a permanent ban on Ukrainian NATO membership – both key Kremlin demands.
However, President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected any deal involving territorial concessions, saying that it violates the Ukrainian Constitution.
“This is our territory, the territory of the people of Ukraine,” Zelensky said on April 22.
**Recent Escalation in Violence**
Just hours after Trump’s comments, Russia launched missile strikes on Kyiv, killing at least 12 civilians and injuring 90. Trump responded by saying he was “not happy” with the attack, calling it “not necessary” and “very bad timing.”
However, he did not condemn Russia or propose consequences.
**International Community Reacts**
The international community has expressed frustration with Russia’s refusal to de-escalate. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is scheduled to meet with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to discuss the situation.
President Zelensky has also urged international leaders to take action, saying that Ukraine is ready to sit down at the negotiating table after a full ceasefire with Russia.
**Next Steps Unclear**
The next steps in this crisis are unclear. However, one thing is certain – the international community will be watching closely as the situation unfolds.
What do you think? Should the US and other countries take a stronger stance against Russia’s aggression in Ukraine? Share your thoughts with us!
