WASHINGTON/LONDON – US President Donald Trump said Saturday that Russia was willing to reach a deal to end the conflict in Ukraine, while accusing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of being unwilling to negotiate a settlement.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said the conflict could have been resolved on multiple occasions and that Zelensky could have secured more favorable terms had he reached an agreement two years ago.
"I think that Russia would like to make a deal," Trump said, adding that "for whatever reason, Zelensky does not want to make a deal."
Trump also called on Ukraine to hold an election and replace Zelensky with a new leader who could reach a deal with Russia.
"President Putin would like to see a settlement strongly. And he's freeing up a lot of oil for the world," Trump said.
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The remarks came a day after Trump held a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin and announced an agreement under which Russia would supply diesel fuel to the United States and global markets.
Zelensky criticized the agreement, warning that additional energy revenues would help finance Russia's operations in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held talks with Ukrainian and European representatives in Miami on Friday as part of renewed diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
The Kremlin said Friday that Ukrainian drone attacks during Russia's parliamentary elections had effectively derailed prospects for an immediate resumption of peace talks.
British PM reiterates solidarity with Zelensky
Also on Saturday, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham reiterated his "complete solidarity" with Zelensky amid tensions between Washington and Kyiv over a US-Russia agreement on diesel supplies.
During a phone call with Zelensky, Burnham acknowledged that the past 24 hours had been difficult for Ukraine and reiterated his complete solidarity, according to a statement from 10 Downing Street.
Burnham said Britain would continue to strengthen sanctions against Russia. The two leaders also agreed to meet in person in the coming days to continue their discussions, the statement said.
