Trump is strong, can push Putin to stop war: Zelenskyy in Munich

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Friday that US President Donald Trump’s intentions and capabilities could help bring an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine. He stated that Trump is a strong leader who could pressure Vladimir Putin into stopping the conflict, news agency AP reported.

“I see, yes, that he is a strong man. And if he chooses our side and does not remain neutral, I believe he will pressure and push Putin to stop the war. He can do it,” Zelenskyy said during his address at the Munich Security Conference on Friday.

Zelenskyy’s statement followed Trump’s announcement on Wednesday that he had spoken with both the Ukrainian President and Russian leader Vladimir Putin about initiating immediate peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow.

Trump said that during his conversation with Putin, the Russian President invited him to visit Moscow.
“We also agreed to have our teams start negotiations immediately. I will now call President Zelenskyy to inform him about the conversation,” Trump said.

He held a “lengthy and highly productive” phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which they agreed to begin immediate negotiations. Trump announced plans to meet with Putin soon, likely in Saudi Arabia, to further these discussions.

However, European leaders have expressed concerns over potential concessions to Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron warned against “capitulation,” emphasising the risks of yielding to Russian demands.

Zelenskyy has expressed hope that Trump’s renowned deal-making skills can help resolve the conflict.