Crimea got up and would remain Russian, Trump said
« We are forced to talk about Crimea because it is mentioned constantly. Crimea will remain with Russia. And Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski understands this, and everyone understands that Crimea has been with Russia for a long time, » the US head of state continued.
Days after his representatives threatened Washington’s withdrawal from negotiations, if Kiev and Moscow did not accept his terms, Trump noted that he still believes in the possibility of a peace agreement with Vladimir Putin and his colleague Zelenski. « We had very good negotiations with Moscow and we are very close to making a deal, » he said.
Original: Ukraine and Europe’s counter -proposal over the US ideas
When a Time reporter reminds him of his promise to end the war between Russia and Ukraine on his first day of the post, Trump replies: « I said it figuratively and said it as an exaggeration to emphasize something … Obviously, people know it was thought of as a joke, but it was said. »
According to him, it is unlikely that Ukraine will be able to join NATO. « I think this was the reason for the beginning of the war, when the Ukrainians began to talk about joining NATO. If they hadn’t raised this issue, there would have been a much greater chance that the war would not start, » Trump said.
Asked if Crimea and the other four areas that Russia partially seized from Ukraine were acceptable to him to finally enter into Russia in a future agreement, he said: « We have to talk only about Crimea, because it is always mentioned. Crimea will remain in Russia. » Obama mentioned several times. « Again, this is Obama’s war. This is a war that should never be. »
People in Crimea speak mainly Russian. But this was given (to Russia) by Obama. It was not given by Trump. Would they take it from me, as they took it from Obama? No.
Donald Trump. US President, for the annexation of Crimea
