President Donald Trump has advised Ukrainian leadership to expedite their peace negotiations with Russia to avoid losing ground. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump warned that Russia has a tendency to “change their mind” if talks drag on. His comments were made just ahead of a crucial meeting in Miami this weekend.
The Miami discussions will involve Trump’s envoys, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, and a delegation from Russia. This follows two days of talks in Berlin with Ukrainian representatives. The intense schedule of meetings suggests a strong push by the US to finalize a peace deal in the immediate future.
Trump noted that the parties are “getting close,” but stressed the need for speed. “I hope Ukraine moves quickly because Russia is there,” he stated. His warning implies that the current Russian willingness to negotiate might be temporary, and that delays could lead to harder terms or a collapse of talks.
The main obstacle continues to be land. Ukraine remains resolute in its refusal to cede territory, particularly the Donbas region, to Russia. Meanwhile, Russia views territorial retention as a key victory condition. The refusal of either side to budge on this issue makes a quick deal difficult to envision.
Russia currently occupies Crimea and significant parts of eastern and southern Ukraine. The Kremlin has demanded that Ukraine withdraw from the Donbas as a condition for peace. With Russian negotiators showing little sign of compromise, Trump’s call for quick action places the burden on Ukraine to make difficult decisions.
