Trump says peace deal 'getting closer'

U.S. President Donald Trump says says a deal to end Russia’s war in Ukraine is closer than ever, though territorial issues remain unresolved.

Transcript

00:00US President Donald Trump says a deal to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine is closer than at any point since the war began.

00:08Speaking in Florida after hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky,

00:13Trump said it should become clear within the next few weeks whether a negotiated end is possible.

00:21Trump offered few details on progress, instead criticized the scale of US financial support to Ukraine

00:27under former President Joe Biden, questioning how effective it has been.

00:32He also highlighted his personal relationship with Putin, calling it a potential advantage in peace talks.

00:39He acknowledged that Ukraine and Russia remain deeply divided over territorial control.

00:43He called a recent phone call with Putin very productive,

00:47but acknowledged Putin has not agreed to a ceasefire that would allow referendums.

00:52Ukraine says those votes are key to resolving territorial disputes.

00:55As part of a pre-New Year diplomatic push, Trump hosted Zelensky for lunch with senior advisors,

01:02then joined a call with European leaders.

01:04Many remain wary of concessions to Russia.

01:07Zelensky indicated further talks could take place in Washington next month.

01:11H