Asger Risom
Former U.S. president’s remarks spark confusion as Ukraine reiterates commitment to territorial integrity
U.S. President Donald Trump asserted Sunday evening that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is prepared to abandon Ukraine’s claim to Crimea, the peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014. The comment, made during a media appearance, sharply contradicts public statements from Zelensky, who has consistently reaffirmed Ukraine’s demand for the return of all occupied territories.
“I think so. Crimea was 12 years ago,” Trump said when asked if Zelensky was ready to “give up” Crimea. He added cryptically, “We’ll see what happens in the coming days,” without offering further specifics, according to Digi24.
A Sensitive and Strategic Issue
Crimea’s annexation by Russia remains one of the most contentious flashpoints in the ongoing conflict between Moscow and Kyiv. Since 2014, Ukraine has steadfastly maintained that the peninsula is an integral part of its sovereign territory, a position supported by the vast majority of the international community.
Trump, however, redirected blame for the situation toward former U.S. President Barack Obama and then-Vice President Joe Biden, suggesting their administration failed to prevent the annexation. “Don’t talk to me about Crimea; talk to Obama and Biden about Crimea,” he said.
Political and Diplomatic Implications
Trump’s remarks come at a delicate moment, as Washington pushes for a broader peace negotiation between Ukraine and Russia. Any suggestion that Ukraine might relinquish Crimea risks undermining Kyiv’s bargaining position and could sow discord among Western allies.
Ukrainian officials have not formally responded to Trump’s statement. Nonetheless, in previous declarations, President Zelensky has remained firm: “Crimea is Ukraine.”
As diplomatic efforts continue, Trump’s unexpected commentary highlights the complex and often volatile interplay between U.S. domestic politics and international diplomacy over the war in Ukraine.