Trump Claims Russia-Ukraine Peace Deal Was ‘Very Close’
Former US President Donald Trump has asserted he was on the verge of finalising a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine before leaving office, suggesting the ongoing war could have been prevented.
Key Claims from Campaign Rally
Speaking at a campaign event in Philadelphia, Trump told supporters he had brokered a deal between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
“I had a deal worked out with Putin and Zelenskyy. I had it worked out. But then I lost the election,” Trump said.
He claimed both leaders were prepared to sign the agreement, which he said collapsed after his 2020 election defeat.
Unspecified Deal Terms
Trump did not reveal the specific terms of the proposed settlement. He insisted the full-scale Russian invasion of February 2022 would not have occurred under his presidency.
“That would have never happened. That war would have never happened,” he stated.
Context and Skepticism
These remarks are part of Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, where he frequently presents himself as an international dealmaker. He has previously vowed to end the war within 24 hours if re-elected, without detailing a public plan.
The claims face significant skepticism:
- Ukrainian stance: Kyiv maintains peace requires full Russian withdrawal from all occupied territories, including Crimea.
- Kremlin response: Moscow has previously dismissed Trump’s assertions about a rapid resolution.
- US policy: The Biden administration remains a strong supporter of Ukraine, providing substantial military and financial aid. The White House has not commented on Trump’s latest statement.
