Trump Attributes Ukraine War To Deep-Rooted Hostility Between Putin And Zelenskyy

US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

Are nearing a breakthrough, identifying the personal hostility between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin as a major barrier to reaching a peace agreement.

Speaking to CBS News’ 60 Minutes, Trump was asked what he considered the biggest challenge in bringing the conflict to an end. He pointed to the strained relationship between the two leaders, arguing that their mutual animosity had complicated diplomatic efforts.

Trump again claimed that the war would not have begun had he been in the White House at the time. He also expressed optimism about the possibility of a settlement, suggesting that the final agreement could involve Ukraine accepting changes to its existing territorial boundaries.

“I think we’re going to have it done,” Trump said, adding that Ukraine could ultimately emerge with a somewhat different territorial shape.

Trump Rules Out Further Escalation With Iran

The interview also covered Washington’s approach towards Iran following the US midterm elections. Asked whether his administration was considering escalating the conflict, Trump said he saw no reason to pursue further military action.

He maintained that Iran’s nuclear material was buried beneath thousands of tonnes of rock and insisted that the United States had already accomplished its military objectives.

US, Russia And Ukraine Prepare For Abu Dhabi Negotiations

Trump’s remarks come ahead of planned trilateral discussions involving the United States, Russia and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi on November 10 and 11. The proposed talks are expected to address a possible end to the war, security guarantees for Kyiv and steps to ease tensions between the two sides.

US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to represent Washington, while European countries are also likely to take part in the diplomatic process.

However, major differences remain between Moscow and Kyiv, particularly over control of occupied territories and guarantees for Ukraine’s future security.

Zelenskyy has also raised concerns about broader European security arrangements, warning that any framework must take Ukraine’s national interests and security requirements into account.

The upcoming discussions are expected to test whether diplomatic engagement can bridge the differences that have so far prevented a lasting settlement.