Trump expressed his intention to facilitate negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing that any territorial adjustments would be determined by Ukraine. He remarked on the Russian offensive as an effort by Putin to strengthen his bargaining position, noting that continued aggression could ultimately backfire on Russia. Trump anticipated productive outcomes from his meeting with Putin, given the economic difficulties faced by Russia. He recognized the presence of Russian business executives at the meeting but emphasized that no agreements would be made until the conflict was resolved. Trump addressed concerns from Ukraine regarding the dynamics of the negotiations.
Trump stated, "They'll be discussed, but I've got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they'll make a proper decision. But I'm not here to negotiate for Ukraine, I'm here to get them at a table." This emphasizes the importance of Ukraine's agency in negotiations while expressing his intent to facilitate dialogue between the conflicting parties.
Trump acknowledged that the Russian offensive in Ukraine aims to strengthen Putin's negotiating position, saying, "I think they're trying to negotiate. He's trying to set a stage. In his mind that helps him make a better deal. It actually hurts him, but in his mind that helps him make a better deal if they can continue the killing." This illustrates the complexities of negotiation strategies amidst ongoing conflict.
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