Trump Urges Zelensky to be Flexible in Peace Negotiations, Rules Out US Troop Deployment

Web Editor

August 19, 2025

a man in a suit shaking hands with a man in a suit and tie in front of a flag, Fikret Muallâ Saygı

Background on Key Figures

Donald Trump, the President of the United States, has stated that his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, must demonstrate flexibility in upcoming peace negotiations. Trump reiterated that the United States will not deploy troops to Ukraine under any circumstances.

Trump’s Stance on European Involvement

In an interview with Fox News, Trump mentioned that several European countries have expressed their willingness to deploy military forces in Ukraine. He clarified that this would not be a concern for the security guarantees sought by Zelensky, as it wouldn’t involve the United States.

  • Trump acknowledged that some European nations are ready to contribute troops, but emphasized that the U.S. would not participate in such a deployment.
  • He also previously dismissed the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO, pending the establishment of security guarantees.

Trump’s Perspective on Territorial Exchange

Regarding potential territorial exchanges, Trump stated that Ukraine would regain its “life” and “a lot of territory” once the conflict ends, without providing further details. Despite this, he acknowledged just two days prior that Kyiv might have to definitively relinquish the Crimean Peninsula.

Trump’s View on the Ongoing Conflict

Trump described the situation as a “war” and acknowledged Russia’s powerful military, regardless of public opinion.

Trump’s Vision for a Future Summit

One of Trump’s primary goals is to organize a new summit involving Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He emphasized that neither leader needs to become “best friends,” but they should be willing to compromise on certain demands.

  • Trump advocated for arranging the meeting as soon as possible, rejecting a European leader’s suggestion of waiting “another month or two” before the summit.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Q: What does Trump expect from Zelensky in the peace negotiations? A: Trump expects Zelensky to be flexible in the upcoming peace negotiations.
  • Q: Will the United States deploy troops to Ukraine? A: No, Trump has ruled out sending U.S. troops to Ukraine under any circumstances.
  • Q: How does Trump view European involvement in Ukraine? A: Trump acknowledges that some European countries are willing to deploy troops, but the U.S. will not participate.
  • Q: What is Trump’s stance on territorial exchanges between Ukraine and Russia? A: Trump believes Ukraine will regain its “life” and “a lot of territory” once the conflict ends, though he previously suggested Kyiv might have to relinquish Crimea.
  • Q: How does Trump perceive the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia? A: Trump describes it as a “war” and recognizes Russia’s powerful military.
  • Q: What is Trump’s plan for facilitating peace talks between Ukraine and Russia? A: Trump aims to organize a summit involving Zelensky and Putin, urging both leaders to compromise on certain demands.