Former U.S. President Donald Trump has said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin will be given “space to talk” during any future peace negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. His remarks come as international pressure grows to find a diplomatic solution to the prolonged conflict.
A focus on direct dialogue
Speaking during an interview, Trump said he believes the best way to end the war is through direct discussions between the two leaders. “You have to give them space to talk,” he stated. “You can’t solve this with everyone shouting at each other. Zelensky and Putin need room to negotiate without pressure from all sides.”
Trump explained that meaningful negotiations require a setting where both parties feel they can make decisions without being forced by outside powers. He said that, while allies and partners can support the process, they should avoid dominating it. “You can’t make peace if everyone else is talking over them,” he added.
Calls for de-escalation
The statement reflects Trump’s consistent message that the war should be brought to an end through diplomacy rather than endless escalation. He has previously expressed skepticism about providing Ukraine with more advanced weapons, warning that increased military support could make negotiations more difficult.
According to Trump, the only realistic way to stop further loss of life is to encourage both sides to find common ground. “This war has gone on too long,” he said. “It’s time to give negotiations a real chance.”
A sensitive diplomatic moment
The war, now entering its third year, has reached a difficult stage. Neither Russia nor Ukraine has been able to secure a decisive military advantage. The front lines remain largely static, while both sides continue to suffer losses. This has created growing interest among international observers in exploring a potential diplomatic path.
Trump’s remarks suggest a plan where global powers — including the United States — would support negotiations but avoid controlling the talks. This would be aimed at reducing tensions and giving both Zelensky and Putin a sense of control over the outcome.
Reactions to Trump’s proposal
Trump’s statement is expected to generate mixed reactions. Supporters say his approach could create a more neutral environment for talks, which might lead to real progress. Critics, however, argue that giving Russia too much room could weaken Ukraine’s position at the negotiating table.
European allies have so far supported Ukraine’s demand that any negotiations must respect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. U.S. officials have also emphasized that no decision about peace will be made without Ukraine’s full participation.
Looking ahead
As the war drags on, pressure to find a way forward through diplomacy continues to grow. Trump’s comments reflect a broader debate over how future negotiations should be structured and who should be involved.
Whether his proposal will gain support remains unclear, but it highlights a growing belief that the conflict will eventually need to be resolved through direct talks between Kyiv and Moscow. For now, both sides remain firm in their positions, but international calls for dialogue are becoming louder.