On Friday, President Donald Trump acknowledged that he was “being a little bit sarcastic” when he claimed during his campaign that he could resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict within 24 hours, even before taking office.
During an interview for the “Full Measure” television program, Trump was questioned about this promise as his administration continues to seek a resolution 54 days into his second term.
“Well, I was being a little bit sarcastic when I said that,” Trump stated in a clip released prior to the episode airing on Sunday. “What I truly mean is that I would like to see it resolved, and I believe I can be successful in doing so.”
This admission is notable, as Trump is known for making grandiose statements.
In a CNN town hall in May 2023, he remarked, “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.”
During a September debate with then-Vice President Kamala Harris, he asserted, “That is a war that’s dying to be settled. I will get it settled before I even become president. If I win, when I’m president-elect, I’ll talk to both sides and bring them together.”
Trump frequently reiterated this claim throughout his campaign.
This week, his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, was in Moscow for discussions regarding a US-proposed ceasefire, which Ukraine has accepted.
In the interview, Trump was also asked about the potential plan if Putin refuses to agree to a ceasefire in the conflict he initiated three years ago.
“Bad news for this world because so many people are dying,” Trump responded.
“However, I believe he’s going to agree. I really do. I think I know him pretty well, and I think he’s going to come to an agreement.”
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