Trump: The US states must do what the Federal government tells them
Trump says ceasefire not essential for talks to move forward
Pressed on whether there would still be “serious consequences” for Russia if no ceasefire is reached, as he had previously suggested, Trump responded:
“I don’t think you need a ceasefire.”
He added that while a ceasefire is “good to have,” he could see why one side might be reluctant to agree to it.
“We can work on a peace deal while they’re still fighting. They have to fight. I wish they could stop — I’d like them to stop — but strategically that could be a disadvantage for one side or the other,” Trump said.
Trump: Ukraine will receive “very good protection”
Asked if he would extend NATO-style Article 5 security guarantees to Ukraine, Trump said that specific arrangements had not yet been discussed, but assured:
“We will give them very good protection, very good security. That’s part of it.”
Trump to speak with Putin later today
Trump noted that he had just spoken with Putin indirectly and would follow up with a direct call once his current meetings concluded.
“He’s expecting my call when we’re finished here — and we may or may not have a trilateral meeting,” Trump said.
A broader struggle over press freedom
Beyond the war, there are larger stakes in the global fight for independent journalism. The world’s most powerful leader is actively punishing outlets that resist his narrative or report critically on his policies — through bans, lawsuits, and curating his own hand-picked press pool. But the pressure on free media extends far beyond Trump.
Authoritarian and economic forces worldwide are undermining the ability of journalists to do their work. An independent press, one that cannot be dictated to by those in power, remains vital to democracy. Figures such as Trump and Hungary’s Viktor Orbán aim to weaken it through exclusion and control.
The Guardian stands against these attacks on journalism. Owned by an independent trust, it is not beholden to billionaires, shareholders, or political influence. This structure allows its reporters to focus on accountability, truth, and ideas that shape a better future.
The stakes are immense, and the news cycle grows more volatile each hour. Countering disinformation and holding leaders to account requires fearless, well-funded reporting. As columnist Rebecca Solnit writes, “authentic hope requires clarity … and imagination” — a reminder that journalism must not only confront power, but also provide space for hope.