In a surprising turn of events, US President Donald Trump has clarified his earlier claims regarding the potential to end the war in Ukraine within just 24 hours, stating that his remarks were made in a tone of sarcasm during his 2024 presidential campaign.
During a recent interview with a media outlet, Trump explained that his previous assertions were not to be taken literally. He stated, “Well, I was being a little bit sarcastic when I said that.” He emphasized his desire for a swift resolution, expressing optimism about achieving peace in the conflict, which has been ongoing for nearly three years.
Trump’s past statements on Ukraine
This admission marks a rare moment of self-reflection for Trump, known for his propensity to make grandiose claims. In May 2023, during a CNN town hall, he had said, “They’re dying, Russians and Ukrainians. I want them to stop dying. And I’ll have that done — I’ll have that done in 24 hours.” He also expressed confidence in his ability to broker peace even before taking office, asserting during a September debate that he would bring the conflicting parties together.
Current diplomatic efforts and future implications
Furthermore, Trump conveyed that he is receiving “good vibes” from Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting that the Russian leader is keen on achieving peace. He articulated his belief that an agreement could be forthcoming, shedding light on the ongoing diplomatic efforts. Recently, Trump’s Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, was reportedly in Moscow for discussions regarding a proposed temporary ceasefire, which Ukraine has accepted.
When questioned about the potential ramifications should Putin reject the ceasefire, Trump expressed concern, stating, “Bad news for this world because so many people are dying.” However, he remained hopeful, saying, “I think he’s going to agree. I really do. I think I know him pretty well, and I think he’s going to agree.”