WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said that Ukraine – not Russia – is holding up a potential peace deal, rhetoric that stands in marked contrast to that of European allies, who have consistently argued Moscow has little interest in ending war in Ukraine. “I think he’s ready to make a deal,” Trump said of Russian president Putin. “I think Ukraine is less ready to make a deal.”Asked why US-led talks had not yet resolved the conflict, Trump responded: “Zelenskyy.” Trump’s comments suggested renewed frustration with Ukrainian leader. At times, Trump has been more willing to accept Putin’s assurances at face value than the leaders of some US allies, frustrating Kyiv, European capitals and US lawmakers, including some Republicans. (This is a Reuters story)
