The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, questioned a claim from former U.S. president Donald Trump that he could end the war in Ukraine in a single day. In a recent interview, Zelensky explained why such a rapid settlement seemed unlikely and what conditions would be necessary for peace talks to make real progress. The remark drew attention because it touched on contrasting assessments of how the conflict might be resolved and who could compel a settlement.
According to Zelensky, he does not understand why Trump suggested bringing Moscow and Kyiv to the negotiating table and concluding the war within 24 hours. He pointed out that ending the fighting is not simply about political will, but about the reality on the ground. While Trump claimed a quick resolution would be possible, Zelensky noted that the situation on the ground remains complex. Ukraine has faced occupation by Russian-backed forces in several regions, a fact that complicates any attempt at a rapid agreement.
Zelensky also acknowledged that U.S. leadership has differed in perceived impact. He said that President Biden has provided more support to Ukraine during the current crisis, though he stressed that the absence of a full-scale invasion at an earlier moment makes it difficult to compare directly with past dynamics. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that the timing and scale of U.S. aid depend on many factors, including political considerations inside the United States and the evolving war landscape.
When asked about concerns tied to upcoming U.S. elections and their potential effect on assistance to Ukraine, Zelensky stated that his goal remains to end the war as soon as possible. Yet he cautioned against predicting the exact orientation of U.S. policy. He also expressed awareness that political changes in Washington could alter the course of support, for better or worse, and that such possibilities are inherent in any international alliance during a volatile conflict.
Trump has repeatedly asserted that if re-elected, he would be able to resolve the Ukrainian crisis quickly. He argued that direct negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv could be organized and that the conflict could be halted within a short period. The statements reflect the former president’s view that momentum and leverage could be applied to reach a settlement, though the specifics of how this would unfold remain a matter of debate among observers and policymakers.
Analysts surrounding the issue stress that peace would require more than quick talks. They highlight the need for verifiable security guarantees, sustained international coordination, and a framework that addresses the status of contested territories, ongoing humanitarian concerns, and broader regional stability. The discourse underscores how differing visions of a possible solution can influence diplomatic efforts, military decisions, and the daily lives of people caught in the conflict.