Trump Shifts Ceasefire Stance, Urges Ukraine to Pursue Peace Deal with Russia

August 17, 2025 — Washington, D.C.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly changed his stance on the ongoing war in Ukraine, calling for a ceasefire and urging Ukrainian leaders to negotiate a peace agreement with Russia.

Speaking at a campaign rally in Ohio on Saturday, Trump criticized the Biden administration’s continued military support for Ukraine and argued that prolonging the conflict is not in America’s best interest.

“This war should have never happened in the first place, and it’s time for Ukraine to sit down with Russia and end the bloodshed,” Trump said. “If I were president, we’d have peace in 24 hours.”

This marks a significant shift from Trump’s earlier, more cautious position on Russia’s invasion. While he previously condemned the violence, he had stopped short of directly calling for Ukraine to negotiate.

Trump’s comments drew mixed reactions. Supporters praised his push for diplomacy, while critics accused him of undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty and giving leverage to the Kremlin.

The White House has not yet responded to Trump’s remarks.