Trump says Putin wants Ukraine deal, blames delay on 'two people that hate each other'

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is keen on securing a peace agreement to conclude the conflict in Ukraine. However, Trump attributed the delay in diplomatic progress to a deep-seated animosity between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Addressing reporters before heading to the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, Trump shared a recent phone conversation with Putin, expressing optimism about the prospects of a diplomatic resolution.

According to Trump, both leaders are amenable to negotiation, with the onus on their willingness to engage in talks. Trump identified the main obstacle to diplomacy as the "two people that hate each other," namely Putin and Zelenskyy. Despite the ongoing tension, Trump maintained confidence in his negotiation skills, crediting his background in dealing with people as the key to understanding the conflict.

He also floated the possibility of hosting a trilateral meeting involving himself, Putin, and Zelenskyy to facilitate discussions. The White House has been deliberating on a potential overhaul of its diplomatic mediation structure since February, considering reducing the roles of US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential adviser Jared Kushner, while expanding the involvement of CIA Director John Ratcliffe.