Zelensky, not Russia, is the obstacle to a peace agreement, Trump said

US President Donald Trump has accused Ukraine of hindering peace talks with Russia. In an interview with Reuters, he said that Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to end the invasion, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is, in his opinion, "less ready" to conclude a peace agreement.

"I think he has a problem getting there," Trump said without further explanation. When asked why US-led negotiations have not yet resolved the biggest territorial conflict in Europe since World War II, Trump replied, "Zelensky."

This stance contrasts with the assessment of US intelligence agencies, which have warned that Putin has not given up on his goal of controlling all of Ukraine and restoring the former Soviet Union's sphere of influence.

Recent US-led negotiations have focused on security guarantees for post-war Ukraine and possible territorial compromises. US negotiators are reportedly pushing Kiev to give up Donbas in favor of an agreement.

Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff are also involved in the process, with media reports of a possible trip to Moscow – although Trump has not confirmed this.

The White House chief has indicated that he will meet with Zelensky next week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, although no specific plans have been made yet.

(reuters, max)