President Donald Trump has warned Ukraine that delaying a peace deal could cost them the opportunity to end the war. Speaking on Thursday, Trump urged Kyiv to “move quickly,” cautioning that Russia often changes its mind during prolonged negotiations. This warning comes ahead of talks in Miami this weekend.
The Miami meeting will involve Trump’s envoys, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, and a Russian delegation. This follows recent discussions in Berlin with Ukrainian representatives. The administration is focused on securing a deal swiftly, viewing delay as a threat to the process.
Trump stated that the parties are “getting close to something,” but warned that time is of the essence. “Every time they take too much time, then Russia changes their mind,” he observed. The implication is that the current offer may not be on the table forever.
The main point of contention is territory. Ukraine has refused to cede land, particularly the Donbas, while Russia demands concessions. This disagreement has stalled progress, despite the administration’s push for a deal.
Russia currently occupies Crimea and parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. The Kremlin is demanding a Ukrainian withdrawal from the Donbas. With US officials noting Russia’s lack of compromise, Trump’s warning underscores the high stakes for Ukraine.