Washington: US President Donald Trump on Thursday cautioned that the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine could potentially escalate into a global war if hostilities continue. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump highlighted that 25,000 people, mostly soldiers, were killed in the war last month alone.
“I want the killing to end. Wars like this can escalate into third world wars,” Trump said, expressing frustration over the continuing violence. He reaffirmed his call for an immediate halt to hostilities, following the signing of an Executive Order aimed at preventing fragmented state-level artificial intelligence regulations.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that Trump is “extremely frustrated” with both Russia and Ukraine for the lack of progress in peace negotiations. She stated that the President seeks tangible outcomes, not just meetings, and is determined to end the four-year-long conflict.
Trump’s administration continues to engage actively in diplomacy, meeting with European leaders and coordinating with Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and his team, who are holding direct discussions with both sides.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has submitted a 20-point counter-proposal to the US regarding security assurances. He stressed that any territorial compromises, particularly concerning the Donetsk region and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, would require approval through a national vote. Washington is reportedly pressing for a peace agreement by Christmas, aiming to establish a framework that balances security and territorial concerns.
