On Tuesday, August 26, US President Donald Trump gave his blunt take on the much-watched meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Asked whether he believed peace talks could succeed, Trump replied: “It takes two people to tango. You got to get them together.”
The remark drew attention not only for its brevity but also for Trump’s candid acknowledgment that Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelensky, “is not exactly innocent either.”
“No Different Than the Worst Wars”
The American president compared the Russia–Ukraine war to some of the world’s bloodiest conflicts. “It’s no different than the worst wars that I’ve ever seen, and if I can stop it – because I have a certain power or a certain relationship – I had a very good relationship with President Putin, very, very good. That’s a positive thing again,” Trump said.
His comments come at a time when peace negotiations remain fragile, with both Moscow and Kyiv standing firm on their conditions for any settlement.
Trump on Lavrov’s Remarks: “All Bullshit”
When asked about Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov’s recent claim that Moscow is not interested in a long-term peace deal with Ukraine, Trump brushed it off in his signature style. “Doesn’t matter what they say. Everybody’s posturing. It’s all bullshit.”
The dismissive tone underscores Trump’s belief that behind-the-scenes diplomacy and personal ties matter more than public statements—a point he has often repeated when discussing his approach to foreign policy.
Trump’s “Relationship Factor”
Trump highlighted his prior relationship with Putin, presenting it as a possible instrument for any future mediation. “I had a very good relationship with President Putin, very, very good. That’s a positive thing again.”
For many observers, Trump’s reliance on personal diplomacy reflects both his unconventional style and his confidence that his unique ties could help de-escalate one of the world’s most dangerous conflicts.
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The Larger Context
The war in Ukraine, now stretching well into its third year, has caused massive human and economic losses. Moscow has intensified its territorial aspirations, even as Kyiv continues to receive assistance from Western partners. In such a climate, Trump’s claim that “everybody’s posturing” reflects his skepticism toward both sides’ willingness to reach a meaningful agreement anytime soon.
Yet, the American president has repeatedly pitched himself as a potential dealmaker who could end the conflict if given the chance. Whether this is rhetoric or a realistic possibility remains a hot debate among diplomats and analysts alike.
