Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday met with former President Trump, who lauded his relationship with Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting he could broker an end to the war between Russia and Ukraine “very quickly.”
“We’re going to work very much with both parties to try and get this settled,” Trump told reporters alongside Zelensky.
“We have a very good relationship, and I also have a very good relationship — as you know — with President Putin. And I think if we win, I think we’re going to get it resolved very quickly,” Trump added.
“I hope we have more good relations,” Zelensky cut in.
“Oh, I see,” Trump responded. “But it takes two to tango, you know. And we’re going to have a good meeting today. And I think the fact that we’re even together today is a very good sign.”
The two, who met at Trump Tower in New York City, shook hands and spoke briefly to the press before sitting down for talks.
Trump, who has often voiced his deep skepticism of U.S. aid to Ukraine, said it was “an honor” to meet with Zelensky. At a rally Wednesday, Trump joined other Republicans criticizing Zelensky over perceptions that he favors Democrats in November’s election.
Asked why he decided to meet with Trump, Zelensky said the two had a “common view” on ending the conflict and, regardless of who wins the election, he hoped U.S. support would continue.
“I think we have [a] common view that the war in Ukraine has to be stopped and Putin can’t win. The Ukrainians have to prevail, and I want to discuss with you the details,” Zelensky said.
Trump a day prior said Zelensky had asked to meet with him, again claiming he could broker a deal between Kyiv and Moscow “quite quickly.”
