U.S. President Donald Trump has rejected claims that Russia is manipulating his attempts to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, maintaining that his actions are solely focused on achieving peace.
During a press briefing in the Oval Office on Friday, Trump emphasized his experience with negotiation, asserting that he can recognize when someone is attempting to deceive him.
“My whole life has been one big negotiation,” he said. “I know when people are playing us, and I know when they’re not.”
He expressed confidence that both sides are showing a willingness to resolve the conflict:
“I have to see an enthusiasm to want to end it. And I think I see that enthusiasm. I think I see it from both sides,” Trump added. “Nobody’s playing me. I’m trying to help. I think we have a really good chance of getting it done, and it’s coming to a head right now.”
His comments came shortly after Vice President JD Vance affirmed the Trump administration’s continued optimism about securing a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.
However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a more cautious stance earlier in the day, warning that the administration would abandon its mediation efforts within days if there is no clear path toward a workable agreement.
On the other side of the conflict, Ukraine has agreed to a temporary ceasefire and has accused Russia of intentionally delaying negotiations to strengthen its leverage.