President Donald Trump has warned Ukraine not to let a potential peace deal slip away by taking too long to decide. Speaking on Thursday, Trump urged Kyiv to “move quickly,” citing the risk of Russia changing its mind. This advice comes ahead of a meeting in Miami between US and Russian officials.
The weekend talks will involve Trump’s envoys, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, and a Russian delegation. This follows recent discussions in Berlin with Ukrainian officials. The administration is actively working to broker a deal, viewing the current moment as critical.
Trump noted that the parties are “getting close,” but emphasized the need for speed. “I hope Ukraine moves quickly because Russia is there,” he said. He warned that delays often lead to Russia shifting its position, potentially making a deal impossible.
The core issue remains territory. Ukraine has stated it will not cede land, particularly the Donbas, while Russia demands territorial concessions. This fundamental disagreement has been the primary obstacle to peace.
Russia occupies Crimea and parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. The Kremlin is demanding a Ukrainian withdrawal from the Donbas. With US officials reporting that Russia is unwilling to compromise, Trump’s warning highlights the difficult choices facing Ukraine.