Trump has called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine
Donald Trump on Sunday called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to take action toward an immediate ceasefire with Ukraine, framing it as part of his efforts as president-elect to end the conflict, despite still being weeks away from his inauguration.
“Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, referring to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
In an interview aired Sunday on NBC’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker, Trump said he was open to reducing military aid to Ukraine and even withdrawing the United States from NATO—stances that have raised concerns among NATO allies, Ukraine, and U.S. national security experts.
When asked if he was actively working to end the nearly three-year-old war, Trump responded, “I am.” However, he declined to confirm whether he had spoken directly with Putin since his November election victory. “I don’t want to say anything about that, because I don’t want to do anything that could impede the negotiation,” he said.
Trump’s direct call for an immediate ceasefire exceeds the public positions of the Biden administration and Ukraine, drawing a measured response from Zelenskyy. This also signals Trump’s active involvement in addressing one of the most pressing global crises before he takes office on January 20.
Meeting in Paris and Ceasefire Appeal
Over the weekend, Trump met with French and Ukrainian leaders in Paris during the reopening celebration of Notre Dame Cathedral. None of his advisors present appeared to have specific expertise on Ukraine. Following the meeting, Trump reiterated his proposal for a ceasefire on Truth Social. “There should be an immediate ceasefire, and negotiations should begin,” he wrote.
“I know Vladimir well. This is his time to act. China can help. The world is waiting!” Trump added, referencing Chinese mediation efforts often viewed by the West as skewed in favor of Russia.
Zelenskyy described his discussions with Trump, brokered by French President Emmanuel Macron, as “constructive,” but emphasized the need for a just and durable peace. “Ukrainians want peace more than anyone else. Russia brought war to our land,” Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated Russia’s stated openness to negotiations, while pointing to Zelenskyy’s October 2022 decree barring talks with Russia as long as Putin remains in power. The decree followed Russia’s annexation of four Ukrainian regions, which Kyiv and its allies deemed a violation of sovereignty.
NATO and Military Aid Questions
In the NBC interview, Trump expressed skepticism about U.S. involvement in NATO, saying he would remain committed to the alliance only if its members “pay their bills” and treat the U.S. fairly. When asked if he might withdraw the U.S. from NATO, Trump replied, “Absolutely. Yeah, absolutely.”
Trump also left open the possibility of cutting U.S. military aid to Ukraine, saying, “Possibly.”
These remarks align with Trump’s longstanding criticism of NATO members for relying on the U.S. for defense while underinvesting in their own militaries—a critique that pressured many countries to increase defense spending during his first term.
Concerns Over Trump’s Ceasefire Strategy
Trump’s ceasefire push has drawn criticism for potentially prioritizing speed over sustainability. Zelenskyy and NATO allies have warned that a premature deal could leave Ukraine vulnerable to renewed aggression once Russia regroups militarily.
Former National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster, speaking on Fox News, cautioned against trusting Putin to uphold any agreement. “What I’m worried about is this flawed idea that Putin can be placated,” McMaster said, urging Trump to follow a “peace through strength” approach.
Trump’s proposal underscores his desire to fast-track resolutions to global conflicts, including the Ukraine war, ahead of his return to the White House. His direct involvement in diplomacy has drawn both scrutiny and acknowledgment of the high stakes involved, as leaders from Ukraine and Russia quickly responded to his call for action.