Trump predicts 'very big' deal with Russia involving all Europe
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has hinted at a "very big" agreement with Russia, which could extend beyond the Ukraine conflict and involve "all of Europe." "I think we're going to be very close to settling Russia-Ukraine," Trump told reporters. The announcement came after Kirill Dmitriev, Russian President Vladimir Putin's envoy, met first lady Melania Trump and Ukrainian officials at the White House to mark a localized ceasefire she brokered in the Ukrainian city of Oleshky.
Confidential discussions
Trump refuses to divulge details
Trump, however, refused to divulge any details.
"I can't tell you what I discussed. But I'm just telling you, it's going to be an agreement, it's going to be a big agreement," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.
"It's going to be very big. It's going to involve more than Ukraine, and I could even say it might involve all of Europe. It's going to be a big, beautiful agreement, and everyone's going to be thrilled."
European apprehensions
European nations fear Trump's Russia tilt
Trump's remarks have raised worries that he may push Ukraine into accepting an unfavorable deal to end Russia's invasion as he aligns more closely with the Kremlin.
NATO members are also watching closely, especially after Trump hinted at possible troop withdrawals from Europe.
Asked if he raised Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilians, Trump said, "I always bring it up, and I also bring it up the other way because...they kill too."
"It is a bloodbath, and it has to end."
Unfulfilled pledges
Trump promised to end Ukraine war 'in 24 hours'
Trump had promised to end the Ukraine war within 24 hours of taking office in January 2025. However, he has often touted peace deals that never materialized.
Earlier, Melania had called for a new "more enduring" ceasefire in Ukraine while hosting a rare meeting between officials from both sides at the White House.
The temporary ceasefire, which she helped broker, ran from October 27 to November 1 and allowed for the evacuation of nearly 800 civilians from Oleshky.