Trump claims Russia-Ukraine deal will happen soon, says Zelensky and Putin hate each other

Washington (The Uttam Hindu): US President Donald Trump has indicated that talks aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war may be nearing a decisive stage. However, he also admitted that deep hostility between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin remains a major hurdle to reaching a peace agreement.

Speaking to the media at the White House, Trump said that both leaders strongly dislike each other, making negotiations extremely difficult. Despite this, he expressed confidence that progress is being made and that discussions have entered a crucial phase.

Trump also revealed that he recently spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone. During the conversation, he requested Putin to halt attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities for one week. According to Trump, Putin agreed to the proposal. He said the request was made considering the severe cold conditions currently affecting both countries, describing the weather as unusually harsh and record-breaking.

However, ground realities continue to reflect tension. Ukrainian officials reported that three people were killed in a Russian drone attack in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. Meanwhile, President Zelensky has warned that Russia may be preparing for a major military offensive in the coming days.

Amid these developments, peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, mediated by the United States, are expected to take place over the weekend. Russia has invited President Zelensky to Moscow for negotiations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that if Zelensky agrees to talks, Russia will ensure his security and make all necessary arrangements. This proposal follows a recent trilateral meeting involving Russia, Ukraine, and the US in Abu Dhabi, which is being viewed as a significant diplomatic step toward ending the conflict.