Donald Trump has called on Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian leader, to swiftly reach a peace agreement with Russia, warning that the Ukrainian people may not be able to endure the current situation much longer.
Relations between Washington and Kyiv have grown tense after U.S. President Donald Trump pressed Ukraine to quickly settle the prolonged war with Russia, now in its fourth year, while showing a friendly stance toward Moscow. Trump also revealed he had requested Vladimir Putin to release an American detained by Russian forces in Ukraine.
Trump told reporters at the White House on Tuesday, 20 Oct 2026 GMT+7, that the U.S. wants Zelensky to make a deal, believing the Ukrainian leader is capable of doing so. He added that Zelensky could have reached an agreement two years earlier during their discussions in the Oval Office.
Trump further stated that Zelensky needs to demonstrate a willingness to make a deal, as he doubts that the Ukrainian people can tolerate the ongoing situation much longer.
This stance reflects pressure from the Trump administration to end the war, while Ukraine insists on participating in all negotiations concerning its future.
Tensions between Washington and Kyiv have continued to escalate after Trump eased some sanctions on Russia to pave the way for a diesel oil supply deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He also criticized Zelensky as a warmonger following Ukraine’s attack on a Russian oil refinery.
Earlier, in February 2025, shortly after Trump resumed the U.S. presidency, he and Vice President J.D. Vance confronted Zelensky sharply in front of the media during talks in the Oval Office, marking a significant turning point in relations between the two leaders.
Most recently, Zelensky met with Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, in Oslo, Norway, on Tuesday to discuss ways to resolve the conflict between the U.S. and Ukraine governments.
Zelensky welcomed the resumption of U.S. intelligence sharing, which helps Ukraine anticipate potential Russian attacks. However, he affirmed that Kyiv must be involved in any discussions determining the country’s future, rejecting decisions made solely by great powers.
The Ukrainian government is increasingly concerned about Trump’s stance, as he frequently blames Ukraine for obstructing peace efforts and appears increasingly friendly toward Putin.
Beyond the war issue, Trump revealed that he has discussed with Putin the release of Stephen Hubbard, an American detained by Russian forces in Ukraine years ago. He said he has repeatedly raised this matter with the Russian leader and requested Hubbard’s release.
Trump said he asked Putin to free Hubbard and suggested watching what happens next. He told reporters to check back in a few days, claiming he can achieve what others cannot. However, he did not disclose details of the talks or specify when Hubbard might be released.
/source:channelnewsasia
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