Trump again gets conned by Putin
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has extended an offer to meet Vladimir Putin in person in Turkey this Thursday, following recent developments around a proposed ceasefire and renewed diplomatic efforts.
The move follows Zelenskyy’s declaration that his team is “ready to meet” with Russian representatives, after Putin indicated openness to peace talks—on the condition of an unconditional ceasefire beginning Monday.
Putin proposed that negotiations be held in Istanbul on Thursday. His statement came in response to mounting international pressure, including warnings from European leaders such as Sir Keir Starmer, who threatened new sanctions against Russia should it fail to comply with the proposed 30-day ceasefire.
Posting on X, Zelenskyy stated: “We await a full and lasting ceasefire starting tomorrow to provide the necessary foundation for diplomacy. There is no point in prolonging the killings. I will be waiting for Putin in Türkiye on Thursday—personally. I hope this time, the Russians will not look for excuses.”
“President Putin of Russia doesn’t appear interested in a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Instead, he wants to meet this Thursday, in Turkey, to negotiate a possible end to the bloodshed.”
“Ukraine should accept this offer immediately. At the very least, it would allow them to assess whether a deal is even possible. If it’s not, then European leaders and the United States will have clarity on the situation and can respond accordingly.”
Trump went on to express skepticism about Putin’s willingness to pursue a deal. “I’m starting to doubt that Ukraine will actually make an agreement with Putin—who’s currently busy celebrating the victory in World War II, which, let’s not forget, could never have been won (not even close!) without the United States of America.”
He concluded his message with a call to action: “Have the meeting now!”