Trump suggests Zelenskyy might concede Crimea amid shifts in U.S.-Ukraine relations

Department of Research, Studies and International News 28-04-2025

During a recent exchange with reporters in New Jersey, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy might be willing to relinquish Crimea to Russia, a striking claim given Zelenskyy’s consistent opposition to such an idea. This comment came shortly after their face-to-face meeting at the Vatican, which Trump described as improving their personal rapport.

When asked if he believed Zelenskyy was prepared to “give up” the annexed peninsula, Trump responded affirmatively. His statement contrasted sharply with Zelenskyy’s remarks just days earlier, where he firmly asserted that Crimea remained “the property of the Ukrainian people” and rejected any U.S. recognition of Russia’s 2014 annexation.

Meanwhile, Reuters revealed two proposed peace frameworks showing U.S. suggestions that Russia could retain control over territories it currently occupies, including Crimea. This approach drew international criticism, notably from German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who likened the U.S. proposal to a “capitulation.” Pistorius emphasized that while Ukraine understood peace talks might involve compromises, the extent proposed by the U.S. seemed excessive and lacked strategic benefit for Kyiv.

Despite the controversy surrounding Crimea, Trump appeared more sympathetic towards Zelenskyy following their Vatican meeting. He remarked that Zelenskyy was striving earnestly for his nation’s welfare and working under incredibly difficult circumstances. However, Trump also expressed his disappointment over continued Russian aggression, noting that despite prior discussions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump’s peace envoy, Steve Witkoff, Russia had resumed missile strikes against Ukraine.

Trump relayed that Zelenskyy reiterated his long-standing request for additional military support, noting, “He’s been asking for more weapons for three years.” When questioned about his expectations from Putin, Trump simply urged the Russian leader to halt hostilities and commit to a peace agreement, suggesting that a preliminary framework was already in place.

Pressed on whether he trusted Putin, Trump gave a noncommittal answer, promising clarity “in about two weeks” but offering no specifics. He vaguely mentioned high casualty rates, stating, “We have 3,000 to 4,000 people dying every week,” without providing further context.

Reflecting on his meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump stated that their relationship had “never been bad” but acknowledged previous public disagreements. He characterized Zelenskyy as facing “an enormously tough situation” against “a much bigger force,” again falsely claiming that the U.S. had provided Ukraine with $350 billion in military aid, a figure far higher than official totals.

Trump also briefly touched on U.S.-China trade relations, asserting that although formal negotiations were stalled, China was keen to reach an agreement. He attributed the lack of business to high U.S. tariffs, suggesting that a resolution was possible but offering no concrete details.

In summary, Trump’s remarks revealed a complex and evolving dynamic between Washington and Kyiv, marked by cautious optimism, political pressure, and controversial proposals that could reshape the course of the ongoing conflict.