U.S. President Donald Trump positioned himself as a potential peacemaker in the Ukraine conflict Friday, claiming both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin seek to end hostilities. The remarks followed Trump's back-to-back engagements with the leaders this week, including a White House meeting with Zelenskyy and a lengthy phone discussion with Putin.
During Zelenskyy's visit, the Ukrainian leader reportedly sought advanced Tomahawk missile systems to bolster defenses against Russian forces. Trump characterized the talks as productive, telling reporters: "Both sides want this resolved. We're working toward a deal that brings stability to the region."
The developments come as the conflict approaches its third year, with global markets remaining sensitive to energy supply disruptions and security analysts warning of prolonged geopolitical tensions. Business leaders and policymakers across Asia are closely monitoring the situation, given its implications for international trade routes and energy security.
While Trump did not disclose specific terms of potential negotiations, his assertion of progress follows renewed international efforts to address the war's humanitarian and economic fallout. The United Nations estimates the conflict has displaced over 10 million people since 2022.
