WASHINGTON DC: US President Donald Trump has raised doubts about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s commitment to ending the war and criticized Russia’s recent missile strikes in Ukraine, CNN reported.
Trump made these remarks after his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Vatican, held on the sidelines of Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday.
It was their first meeting since their last encounter at the White House, where Trump and Vice President JD Vance had previously criticized Zelenskyy for what they felt was a lack of appreciation for US assistance.
Posting on his platform, Truth Social, during his return flight from Rome, Trump suggested possible new sanctions on Moscow following Russia’s latest attacks. He also questioned whether Putin genuinely wants to end the conflict.
Trump further criticized former US President Barack Obama, blaming him for allowing Russia to seize Crimea from Ukraine "without even a shot being fired."
Zelenskyy described his meeting with Trump as positive and said discussions centered around achieving a full and unconditional ceasefire.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Zelenskyy wrote, Positive meeting. We discussed a lot one-on-one. Hoping for results on all points. Protecting lives. Full ceasefire. A lasting peace to prevent future wars. A symbolic meeting that could become historic if we succeed. Thank you, POTUS.
According to a White House official, Trump and Zelenskyy had a very constructive discussion in Rome, marking their first talks since their tense meeting earlier this year, sources reported.
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