August 19, 2025

In a bold and sharp message ahead of their White House meet, Donald Trump, the former US President, told Ukraine's leader Voldymyr Zelenskyy to give up the land lost to Russia and to forget joining NATO. Talking to reporters before meeting Zelenskyy, Trump said, "This war is going to end... one way or another it is going to end..." He offered "Nato-like" protection for Ukraine — a softer promise than full NATO membership — following demands from European allies. Zelenskyy seemed ready to accept losing the territory Russia captured and now wants strong security guarantees for Ukraine's remaining land. Earlier, Trump gave a tough choice to Zelenskyy: "can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to, or he can continue to fight." On his Truth Social platform, Trump blamed past US leaders for the conflict, saying, "Remember how it started. No getting back Obama given Crimea (12 years ago, without a shot being fired!), and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE. Some things never change!!!" This statement showed he indirectly sided with Russia’s stand. But when meeting Zelenskyy in the Oval Office, Trump was calmer and spoke about "Nato-like" security guarantees, which Ukrainian and US officials expect to be strong and legally binding. They hope for guarantees like Article 5 of the NATO treaty, where all members defend any attacked member, making Ukraine a de facto NATO member. Zelenskyy arrived at the White House in his usual black, looking serious while the two leaders avoided detailed questions from reporters about the peace deal’s exact plans. Trump expressed confidence, saying, "We are going to have a lasting peace...I hope it is going to be immediate." Before the meeting, Trump posted angry messages blaming "the Fake News Media and their Democrat Partners" for blocking his efforts to stop the war. He boasted, "I’ve settled 6 Wars in 6 months, one of them a possible Nuclear disaster... I know exactly what I’m doing... I’ll get it done — I always do!!!" Meanwhile, US-India relations face challenges beyond Russian oil buying. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that sanctioning China for buying Russian oil would hike global oil prices, the same logic behind softer actions on India. Other US officials admit China’s stronger global position explains this treatment, hinting India has less sway. Trump has also criticized the growing BRICS group, accusing it of plans against the US dollar and praising India for gaining manufacturing jobs from America. So, even if the Ukraine peace talks lead to a deal soon, India might dodge the 25% penalty on Russian oil imports but still faces the 25% import tariff. All eyes, including New Delhi’s, stay glued on these shifting global moves and fragile peace hopes.

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Tags: Donald trump, Voldymyr zelenskyy, Ukraine russia war, Nato, Us-india relations, Russian oil sanctions,