(MENAFN) US President Donald Trump has denied that a ceasefire in Ukraine was discussed during his meeting with President Vladimir Zelensky at the NATO summit in The Hague, contradicting Zelensky’s earlier claims.

Zelensky had described their meeting as “long and substantive,” stating they talked about how to “achieve a real peace.” However, speaking to reporters, Trump said the ceasefire was not part of their conversation. “No, no, I just wanted to know how he’s doing,” Trump said.

Trump also mentioned plans to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin to seek an end to the conflict but did not provide a timeline for the discussion. When asked about his earlier statement that he could end the war within 24 hours, Trump called it “sarcastic” and acknowledged that resolving the conflict would be challenging. He described Putin as “more difficult” than expected and admitted to having “some problems with Zelensky” as well.

Regarding US contributions to the $5 billion military aid pledged by NATO members, Trump reiterated that the focus should be on ending the war. When questioned about selling Patriot missile systems to Ukraine, Trump said they are “very hard to get” and that the US also requires them. He noted that Patriots are being supplied to Israel but said the US would “see if we can make some available.”

Since taking office, Trump has consistently advocated for a negotiated resolution to the Ukraine conflict. Moscow has expressed willingness to negotiate without preconditions but insists any agreement must reflect the realities on the ground and Ukraine’s neutral status.

MENAFN29062025000045015687ID1109736964