Zelensky has categorically rejected recognizing the Russian annexation of Crimea, citing that doing so would violate the Ukrainian constitution. Additionally, he has warned that a truce without guarantees could benefit Russia, allowing it to regroup and rearm.
The tension between both leaders reached a peak during a discussion in the Oval Office, in which Vice President JD Vance also participated.
Trump, meanwhile, accused Zelensky of "prolonging the killing field" and of having no valid cards to negotiate. He stated that the United States is investing valuable time and resources in the negotiations, and that the American people have funded this war with billions of dollars. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed that the President is "frustrated" and that his patience "is running thin."
The situation between the United States, Ukraine, and Russia is at a critical point, marked by diplomatic and military tensions surrounding the prolonged conflict in Eastern Europe.
At the center of the debate are the statements of the United States President, Donald Trump, who has intensified his pressure on the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, to accept a peace agreement that would include significant concessions to Russia.
On Wednesday, Trump issued a stern warning to Zelensky, stating that Ukraine could choose peace or risk losing the entire country in a prolonged three-year war.
Trump volvió a presionar a Zelenski para alcanzar un acuerdo de paz
These statements came after Zelensky reaffirmed that Ukraine "will not legally recognize the Russian occupation of Crimea", which contradicts one of the key points of the peace plan proposed by the United States.
Trump, on his Truth Social network, called Zelensky's stance detrimental to peace negotiations and argued that Crimea "was lost years ago under Barack Obama's presidency," so it should no longer be a topic of discussion.
At the White House, Trump claimed to have an almost closed deal with Russia, but the real difficulty lies in achieving a commitment from Ukraine.
Trump afirmó que tiene casi cerrado un acuerdo con Rusia
The peace plan that the United States has been promoting includes several critical points:
The de facto recognition of the Russian annexation of Crimea and four other Ukrainian regions (Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia).
The refusal to support Ukraine's entry into NATO.
The lifting of economic sanctions against Russia and possible energy cooperation between Moscow and Washington.
The partial withdrawal of Russia from the Kharkiv region and assistance for Ukraine's reconstruction.
Security guarantees provided by European countries, excluding direct participation from the United States.
El trato incluye la negativa de Ucrania de ingresar a la OTAN
En las discusiones con Zelenski también pesó con importancia la opinión de JD Vance
The Kremlin has shown skepticism about the viability of the agreement proposed by Trump. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called the efforts "useless" and emphasized that Moscow will not participate in face-to-face meetings with U.S. officials this week.
The Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, stated that Zelensky "has no capacity to negotiate" and that European countries, by continuing to supply weapons to Ukraine, are fostering the prolongation of the conflict.
In a dramatic turn, Kiev was targeted by a devastating missile and drone attack early Thursday morning. According to the capital's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, at least nine people were killed and more than 60 were injured.
Trump, despite his previous criticisms of Zelensky, issued a condemnation against Moscow: "Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers are dying every week. Let's make the peace deal." This statement marks a direct rebuke to Putin, although Trump continues to avoid imposing sanctions or coercive measures against Russia.
La portavoz de Exteriores de Rusia, afirmó que Zelenski no está en una buena posición para negociar
