US President Donald Trump began his new term with tough statements against Russia and its leader Vladimir Putin. According to Trump, the Kremlin's refusal to peacefully resolve the conflict in Ukraine is causing serious damage to Russia itself. The head of the White House voiced his comments during a conversation with journalists, American media report.
"He (Putin) has to make a deal. I think he is destroying Russia by not making a deal.", Trump said in an interview with The Guardian.
According to him, Moscow's refusal to resolve the conflict diplomatically threatens Russia with big problems, including further isolation and economic difficulties.
What is noteworthy is that Trump has already effectively taken Ukraine’s side, and therefore there is a great deal of confidence that the new American president does not intend to resolve the conflict peacefully.
The US President noted that Washington is already taking steps to organize a meeting with Vladimir Putin. According to Trump, telephone talks between the leaders have taken place and preparations for personal talks are in the active stage. The American leader stressed that his priority is to end the conflict as soon as possible, but Trump obviously does not want to put pressure on Kyiv.