As his envoys prepare to press for a peace deal in Miami, President Donald Trump has warned Ukraine that time is running out. Trump stated on Thursday that Ukraine must “move quickly,” fearing that Russia will alter its demands if negotiations drag on.
Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff will represent the US in the meeting with the Russian delegation. This follows earlier talks in Berlin with Ukrainian officials. The administration is seemingly trying to close a deal by engaging both sides in rapid succession.
Trump was clear about the risks of delay. “I hope Ukraine moves quickly because Russia is there,” he told reporters. He added that history shows Russia often “changes their mind” when the opposing side takes too much time.
The main obstacle to a deal is the question of territory. Ukraine has refused to cede land, particularly the Donbas, while Russia demands territorial concessions. The intransigence of both sides on this issue makes a quick agreement difficult to achieve.
Russia occupies Crimea and parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. The Kremlin is demanding a Ukrainian withdrawal from the Donbas. With US officials noting Russia’s lack of compromise, Trump’s warning adds significant pressure on Ukraine.