US President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that he trusts Russian President Vladimir Putin to honor any peace agreement with Ukraine. Since Russia invaded Ukraine three years ago, the war has continued. However, Trump believes Putin will stand by his commitments. “He will keep his word,” Trump as saying. He made this statement during his meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House.
Trump Welcomes Starmer to the White House
Earlier in the day, Starmer arrived at the White House in a Black Escalade. Trump greeted him warmly with smiles, handshakes, and friendly pats on the back. Then, turning to reporters, he said, “It’s a great honor to have Starmer here.” Furthermore, he added, “It’s a special place, and he’s a special man.”
Trump Confident About a Ukraine Peace Deal
Later, a reporter asked Trump if he could secure a peace deal for Ukraine. Without hesitation, he responded, “Yes, we can, we will.” Meanwhile, Starmer remained silent when asked whether the UK would receive a security guarantee from the US in case of a ceasefire.
Instead, Trump claimed that his planned minerals deal with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would serve as a security measure. “President Zelenskyy is coming to see me on Friday morning. And we’re going to be signing a very important agreement for both sides because it’s really going to get us into that country, working there,” The Guardian quoted Trump as saying. Additionally, he remarked, “It’s a backstop, you could say.”
Trump’s ‘Backstop’ Differs from Europe’s Definition
Notably, Trump used the term “backstop” in a different way than European leaders. While European nations demand a US-backed military presence in Ukraine as a security guarantee, Trump’s deal would focus primarily on economic cooperation. As a result, his proposal does not align with the security measures that European leaders expect.
During their talks, Trump emphasized that a ceasefire must come first. He insisted that foreign peacekeepers should not be considered until a deal is reached. Consequently, he dismissed Europe’s demand to include security guarantees as part of the ceasefire negotiations.
Trump Accepts State Visit Invitation from King Charles III
Meanwhile, Trump also confirmed that he will soon visit the UK for a state visit. King Charles III had invited him, and Starmer personally delivered the letter.
Upon opening the invitation, Trump praised the British monarch. “He’s a beautiful man and a wonderful man,” he said. Clearly, this visit aligns with Starmer’s goal of strengthening US-UK relations under Trump’s leadership.
European Leaders Meet Trump Amid Ukraine Tensions
Earlier this week, French President Emmanuel Macron also met with Trump at the White House. Although their meeting was friendly, it revealed sharp differences over Ukraine. On one hand, Macron and other European leaders want security guarantees included in ceasefire talks. On the other hand, Trump insists on finalizing a peace deal before addressing security measures.
For now, the debate continues. The US and European allies must decide how to balance peace negotiations with long-term security commitments.
