Trump says talks on Ukraine advanced, Russia ‘acting well’

U.S. President Donald Trump holds a letter from Britain’s King Charles as he meets with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer (not pictured) in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., February 27, 2025. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque/File Photo 

Trump Claims Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks Are “Very Well Advanced”

Progress in Negotiations

U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are making significant progress, emphasizing Russia’s constructive engagement in the discussions.

• Speaking at the White House alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump indicated that while a final agreement has not yet been reached, negotiations are well advanced.
• “I think Russia has been acting very well,” Trump said. “I think we’re very well advanced on the deal, but we have not made a deal yet.”
• When questioned about whether Russian President Vladimir Putin could be trusted, Trump responded with the phrase: “Trust and verify.”
• Starmer expressed support for the peace process, stating, “I thank President Trump for changing the conversation to bring about the possibility that we can have a peace deal.”

Potential Security Backstop for Europe

As part of a post-war settlement, Prime Minister Starmer has proposed that the United States provide a security “backstop” for any European forces participating in a peacekeeping role in Ukraine.

• The British Prime Minister stressed the importance of U.S. involvement in ensuring a stable security framework for Europe once a deal is reached.
• Trump, however, declined to discuss specifics about peacekeeping operations, stating that such plans would only be considered after an agreement is finalized.

Upcoming Meeting with Zelenskiy

Trump also confirmed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy will visit the White House on Friday, where he is expected to sign a critical minerals agreement with the U.S.

• Trump described the minerals deal as a “backstop” for Ukraine, though details of the agreement remain unclear.
• The deal is expected to secure U.S. access to Ukraine’s mineral resources, a key issue in recent negotiations between Washington and Kyiv.