WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — During a recent interview set to air on the “Full Measure” television program, President Donald Trump discussed his previous assertions about swiftly resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Trump acknowledged that his past claims about achieving peace within a mere 24 hours were made with a degree of sarcasm. This statement marked a rare moment of admission for Trump, who is widely known for making bold and sometimes exaggerated promises.
When pressed about his campaign trail proclamations, Trump explained, “Well, I was being a little bit sarcastic when I said that. What I really mean is I’d like to get it settled and, I’ll, I think, I think I’ll be successful.” Since entering his second term, his administration has actively sought a resolution to the protracted conflict over the last 54 days.
In a CNN town hall in May 2023, Trump emphasized his desire to halt the ongoing loss of life, stating, “They’re dying, Russians and Ukrainians. I want them to stop dying. And I’ll have that done — I’ll have that done in 24 hours.” This sense of urgency was reiterated during a September debate with then-Vice President Kamala Harris, where he confidently stated, “That is a war that’s dying to be settled. I will get it settled before I even become president.”
Trump’s team continues to work toward peace, with his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, engaging in discussions this week in Moscow regarding a U.S.-proposed ceasefire that Ukraine has already agreed to. During the interview, Trump was questioned about his strategy if Russian leader Vladimir Putin remains unwilling to cease hostilities.
Expressing concern for the human cost of the ongoing conflict, Trump remarked, “Bad news for this world because so many people are dying.” However, he remained hopeful about a diplomatic breakthrough, stating, “I think, I think he’s going to agree. I really do. I think I know him pretty well and I think he’s going to agree.”
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