Trump Pushes Ukraine Peace Deal Amid Crimea Dispute with Zelenskiy

U.S. President Donald Trump clashed with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy over Crimea and efforts to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. During recent talks, Trump criticized Zelenskiy’s refusal to recognize Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea, calling it a major obstacle to peace.

Vice President JD Vance stated the U.S. would withdraw from peace efforts if Ukraine and Russia failed to accept a proposal that includes freezing territorial lines and pursuing a long-term diplomatic solution. A former Western official confirmed that the U.S. plan acknowledges Russia’s claim over Crimea.

Since returning to office in January, Trump has shifted U.S. policy by urging Kyiv to agree to a ceasefire and easing pressure on Moscow. Zelenskiy, however, reaffirmed that Ukraine will not cede Crimea, citing constitutional restrictions. He referenced a 2018 declaration by Mike Pompeo rejecting Russia’s annexation and reaffirmed U.S. support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

Tensions ran high during trilateral talks in London among the U.S., Ukraine, and European allies. Trump called Crimea a "non-issue" and insisted a peace deal was near. Despite this, Secretary of State Marco Rubio canceled his London trip, highlighting ongoing divisions between Washington and its allies.

Reports suggest Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, proposed Ukraine concede occupied territories, abandon NATO aspirations, and lift sanctions on Russia. While Ukrainian officials resisted, Trump allies pushed for swift agreement. Trump’s envoy Keith Kellogg reiterated the administration’s position to “stop the killing and put America First.”

Witkoff is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin again this week. Trump maintains that both Kyiv and Moscow must show leadership to end the war. A joint statement from the UK, France, and Germany expressed support for Trump’s peace push, with further talks anticipated.