Trump Administration Pushes for Peace in Ukraine, Negotiations to Begin in Saudi Arabia

Trump Administration Moves to Negotiate End of Ukraine-Russia War

The Trump administration is moving to negotiate an end to the Ukraine-Russia war. National security advisor Michael Waltz addressed concerns about European allies not being consulted on the matter.

Talks between the U.S. and Russia are expected to begin in Saudi Arabia this week. French President Emmanuel Macron is also hosting an emergency summit on Ukraine with European leaders in Paris starting Monday.

Waltz stated that both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed that only President Trump could bring them to the table and drive peace. He also noted that Trump spoke to Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer last week, and that high-ranking U.S. officials have been engaging with European allies throughout the week.

"They may not like some of the sequencing that is going on in these negotiations, but I have to push back on any notion that they aren't being consulted. They absolutely are," Waltz said.

He added that President Trump will ultimately lead the effort to end the war.

Senator Adam Schiff criticized the Trump administration's handling of the negotiations, stating that the president's inability to recognize Ukraine's bargaining power is a surrender of American values and interests. He also pointed out that Zelenskyy has said he will not be bound by any deal negotiated between Russia and the U.S.

Waltz responded that Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Vice President JD Vance stressed the importance of a partnership with the United States in talks with Zelenskyy. He also emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in future investments, stating that the American people deserve to be recouped for their contributions to the war effort.

Waltz explained that the negotiations will be driven by key principles, including ensuring a permanent end to the war and recognizing that the conflict cannot be resolved on the battlefield. He also stressed the importance of economic integration and long-term military security guarantees led by European nations.

He concluded by highlighting the need for all NATO members to contribute their fair share, stating that the lack of commitment from some members raises questions about their backing of the rhetoric.