Trump Claims Putin Ready for Ukraine Peace Deal, Zelensky Open to Talks

Former President Donald Trump announced during a fiery address to Congress on Tuesday night that Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent “strong signals” indicating a willingness to negotiate peace in Ukraine. Trump also revealed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote to him, expressing readiness to return to the negotiating table.

During the 100-minute speech, Trump criticized U.S. support for Ukraine, questioning the billions of dollars spent on aid while accusing European nations of continuing to buy Russian oil. He also pushed for an agreement that would allow U.S. companies to extract rare earth minerals from Ukraine. Trump’s remarks come after his recent heated meeting with Zelensky and his controversial decision to pause military aid to Kyiv.

Trump emphasized his belief that diplomacy is key, stating, “If you want to end wars, you have to talk to both sides.” He claimed that the U.S.-Ukraine relationship, previously strained, was now on the verge of securing a minerals and security agreement. He read from Zelensky’s letter, which stated, “Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer.”

Trump’s speech also included praise for Elon Musk’s DOGE cryptocurrency, a renewed push to take control of the Panama Canal, and a pledge to ban transgender athletes from women’s sports. Democrats in the chamber heckled him, accusing him of misleading the public.

As Trump capped off his eventful first six weeks back in office, the world now watches whether his claims about peace talks will materialize—or if tensions will continue to escalate.