Trump Sees Early Progress on Ukraine War While Handling Iran Talks

(MENAFN) US President Donald Trump on Monday said his administration is beginning to see early progress toward ending the war between Russia and Ukraine, while also conducting diplomatic efforts with Iran and across the Middle East, according to reports.

Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump addressed upcoming talks in which US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday. “You have Iran, and you have Russia, Ukraine, and you have the Middle East. We have a lot of things going,” he said, noting that many of the conflicts existed before his return to office.

On Ukraine, Trump expressed cautious optimism. “I think we’re doing very well with Ukraine and Russia. For the first time, I’m saying that,” he added, suggesting that there could “maybe” be “some good news.” He also described the human toll of the war as staggering, saying, “We’re losing — 25,000 people a month are being killed in that war,” while highlighting the indirect effects on the United States.

Trump criticized former President Joe Biden’s approach to Ukraine aid, claiming that the previous administration spent “$350 billion.” He stressed that his strategy focuses on ensuring allies contribute more financially, noting that European nations reimburse the US for weapons supplied through NATO arrangements. “We send missiles over there. They pay us in full. It doesn’t cost us 10 cents,” he said.

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