Trump Says Russia–Ukraine Peace Deal Is “Closer Than Ever” as U.S. and Europe See Momentum

U.S. President Donald Trump has said that a deal to end the nearly four year Russia Ukraine war is closer than ever, citing extensive and constructive talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and key European leaders. Speaking at a White House event, Trump expressed optimism following what he described as “very long and very good discussions” involving representatives from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and NATO.

The announcement came after Trump participated in discussions linked to a high level dinner in Berlin, where U.S. representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have been engaging with President Zelensky and European leaders on potential pathways toward a negotiated settlement. U.S. and European officials say there is growing momentum to bring the conflict to an end, though significant challenges remain, particularly over territorial issues and long-term security guarantees.

The war, which began with Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, has killed tens of thousands, displaced millions, and reshaped global security and energy markets. While previous diplomatic efforts have failed to produce a lasting ceasefire, recent intensified engagement by Washington and its European allies has renewed hopes of progress. Trump’s remarks signal a renewed push by the United States to broker a deal that could halt the fighting, as diplomatic channels remain active on multiple fronts.