Trump says Putin is softening terms to end war in Ukraine
US President Donald Trump stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin has softened his conditions for ending the war in Ukraine, describing Moscow's stance as increasingly flexible.
The statement was made during a bilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara, according to Ukrainian media reports.
US pressure on Moscow
Asked whether he was prepared to increase pressure on Moscow if Russia refused to halt its invasion, Trump signaled that significant measures were already underway.
"We are exerting heavy pressure on Putin. I don't think he likes what is happening, nor do I think he is pleased with the current situation," Trump declared. "Everyone is pushing to achieve this outcome."
Shifting conditions for peace
The US president reiterated his belief that the Kremlin leader wants to end the war as soon as possible, noting that the two leaders hold frequent discussions.
"He wants to end it quickly. I asked him about this, and we discussed it. I speak with him often," Trump stated.
According to Trump, the demands previously outlined by Moscow to stop the military aggression are no longer static and have improved in certain respects.
"There were certain conditions. They were somewhat different, but they are changing. They are probably becoming a bit better in some ways," Trump noted. "Russia is in a tougher position now. The situation has become more complicated than it should have been."
Trump concluded by emphasizing that both Putin and Zelenskyy share a mutual desire to bring the conflict to a close.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
