United States President Donald Trump yesterday lashed out at Ukraine’s leadership, accusing Kyiv of showing “zero gratitude” for Washington’s diplomatic efforts to end the protracted war with Russia.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump, writing in capital letters, criticised Ukraine’s “leadership” for failing to acknowledge U.S. support, while also faulting Europe for continuing to purchase Russian oil despite backing Ukraine militarily.

The American president reiterated that he “inherited a war that should never have happened” and restated his determination to deliver a negotiated settlement—one he insists remains within reach.

His remarks came moments after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signalled cautious optimism, saying ongoing discussions in Geneva had produced “an understanding” that aspects of the U.S.-backed 28-point peace proposal align with Ukraine’s national interests.

Zelenskyy, via an X post, expressed appreciation “to every leader and everyone around the world who supports Ukraine,” and voiced hope that the Geneva engagement would “pave the way to a real and lasting peace.”

Talks enter crucial phase

Delegations from the United States, Ukraine and key European partners are meeting behind closed doors at the Intercontinental Hotel in Geneva, where they are fine-tuning elements of the draft agreement. The American team is led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, both of whom have maintained a deliberate silence amid the president’s comments.

Ukraine’s national security chief, Rustem Umerov, acknowledged Washington’s role, saying Kyiv “values U.S. efforts” and expects “more progress,” noting that the current proposals incorporate “many Ukrainian priorities.”

Europe uneasy as pressure grows

Several European leaders, however, have expressed reservations about the emerging framework, warning that it tilts dangerously in Russia’s favour—especially on questions of territorial concessions and limits on Ukraine’s NATO pathway.

Speaking at the G20 Summit in South Africa, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he remained “sceptical” that a final agreement could be reached before Thursday—the deadline President Trump has issued for Kyiv to respond to the peace proposal.

Reports indicate that U.S. support for Ukraine may be scaled back if Kyiv fails to provide a formal response before the deadline.

Background

The talks, one of the most intensive diplomatic efforts since the war began, follow Washington’s rollout of a 28-point peace agenda aimed at halting the conflict. The proposal has drawn mixed reactions, with advocates arguing it offers a path to de-escalation while critics warn it may entrench Russian gains.