Trump Urges Russia’s Putin to Negotiate Ukraine Ceasefire, Raises Concerns About NATO and Aid

President-elect Donald Trump has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to initiate an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, The Associated Press reports.

In a statement on social media and a subsequent television interview, Trump asserted he is actively working to end the nearly three-year-old conflict, even before his January 20 inauguration.

“Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, referencing Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky.

He urged Putin to act, suggesting China could play a mediating role, a proposal that has drawn skepticism in the West given China’s perceived pro-Russia stance.

“I know Vladimir well. This is his time to act. China can help. The World is waiting!” Trump added.

Trump’s proposal goes beyond the current stance of the Biden administration and Ukraine, which have emphasized a “just and lasting peace” rather than a rushed ceasefire. Zelensky described his discussions with Trump, facilitated by French President Emmanuel Macron, as “constructive.”

The Kremlin responded by reiterating its openness to talks, referencing a 2022 Ukrainian decree declaring negotiations impossible while Putin remains in power.

In his interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Trump also hinted at potential reductions in US military aid to Ukraine and raised the possibility of withdrawing from NATO. He said that continued US participation in NATO hinges on fair treatment and financial contributions from its allies. These remarks follow a weekend meeting in Paris with Ukrainian and French leaders, a gathering primarily focused on the Notre Dame cathedral’s restoration.