Trump criticizes Zelenski after Crimea’s statement: Finish the job, you will lose all country
US President Donald Trump has again stepped up pressure on Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski, calling for a peace treaty to end the war in Ukraine.
In a post on his social network Truth Social, Trump said the agreement was « very close », but sharply criticized Zelenski for his statements to Crimea, warning that Ukraine risks « losing the whole country » if the current approach continues.
Trump referred to a recent statement by Greenski on the Wall Street Journal, in which the Ukrainian leader said: « Ukraine will never legally recognize the occupation of Crimea. There is nothing to discuss. »
According to Trump, this statement is seriously impeding peace talks with Russia because, as he claims, « Crimea has been lost many years ago » during the term of former US President Barack Obama. He added that Crimea was « not subject to discussion » and that large Russian military bases existed on the peninsula for decades before its annexation in 2014.
– No one is asking Greenski to recognize Crimea as Russian territory, but if he wants to return it, why did Ukraine not defend him eleven years ago when he was handed over to Russia without a fired bullet? – wrote Trump. He called the « flammable » statements of Zelenski and the reason for the difficulties of trying to achieve peace.
– It is precisely the burning statements like the one that Zelenski gave today is the reason why it is so difficult to achieve peace. There is nothing to boast about! The situation for Ukraine is very difficult, it can choose peace or continue to fight three more years before losing the whole country. I have nothing against Russia, but I take deep care not to lose five thousand Russian and Ukrainian lives every week, as all these people die for no reason. Today’s statement by Zelenski will only continue the « murder », and no one wants it – Trump wrote.
« We are very close to a deal, but the man who » has no more trumps « must now finally understand this and get the job done. I look forward to help both Ukraine and Russia get out of this complete chaos – which would never happen if I was a president – the US president said.
According to US media, Trump’s alleged peace plan predicts official recognition of Russian sovereignty over the US annexed Crimea. Green’s categorically rejected this proposal, saying such recognition is contrary to the Ukrainian constitution.
Trump’s pressure is intensified to both Moscow and Kiev, with his administration warning that the United States could completely withdraw from mediation if no agreement is reached soon. Vice President Jay Di Vans, who said the US proposal was « clear » and that it was time for both sides to say « yes » or the United States to withdraw from the process.
He added that it is a « very fair proposal » that will « freeze territorial lines at some level close to the current », provided both sides give up part of the territory they are currently holding. He did not provide any other details.
