**Trump Admits Putin Doesn’t Want Peace in Ukraine, Citing Belief He’s Winning the War**
In a shocking revelation, US President Donald Trump has told European leaders that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not ready for peace in Ukraine because he believes he is winning the war. This statement, made to European leaders on May 19, marks a significant shift in Trump’s rhetoric towards Putin and acknowledges what many have long believed – that the Kremlin has no intention of ending its full-scale war against Ukraine.
**Trump’s Conversation with European Leaders**
According to reports from the Wall Street Journal and Axios, Trump held a phone call with President Volodymyr Zelensky, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, French President Emmanuel Macron, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Antonio Costa. During this conversation, Trump reportedly seemed “relatively content” with what he heard from Putin, despite the fact that many had expected a more critical stance towards Russia.
**Putin’s Reiteration of Maximalist Demands**
Just days after largely inconclusive negotiations in Istanbul, where Russia sent a delegation of low-level officials, Putin reiterated Russia’s maximalist demands and denied any willingness to agree to a full ceasefire. This move has left Ukraine and its allies frustrated, with many feeling that the Kremlin is not serious about finding a peaceful solution.
**A Shift in Rhetoric, But No Action**
While Trump’s statement marks a significant shift in his rhetoric towards Putin, it remains unclear what concrete actions will be taken to hold Russia accountable. Despite growing frustration among allies, the White House has so far failed to impose new sanctions or take direct steps to penalize Russia.
**Background on Ukraine-Russia Conflict**
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing for months, with both sides showing little willingness to compromise. In March, Washington proposed a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, which was accepted by Ukraine but rejected by Russia. Since then, the Kremlin has continued its attacks, leading many to believe that Putin is not genuinely interested in finding a peaceful solution.
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