Full Breakdown
Trump Says War in Ukraine Nearing End Amid Ongoing Conflict
5/13/2026, 5:43:05 AM
Trump Predicts Imminent Settlement
President Donald Trump told reporters on May 12, as he left the White House for a trip to China, that “the end of the war in Ukraine I really think it’s getting very close.” He said Moscow and Kyiv are moving toward a settlement, echoing President Vladimir Putin’s claim earlier in the week.
Context and Recent Developments
Negotiations have stalled for over two months. In April, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said talks with Kyiv were not a priority. On May 9, President Vladimir Putin said the war was “close to ending.” A ceasefire from May 9-11 ended after Russia rejected Ukraine’s request to extend it, and attacks resumed, killing at least six civilians in Dnipropetrovsk and launching more than 200 drones that hit apartments, energy sites and a kindergarten. Kyiv proposes freezing the front line; Moscow demands Ukrainian withdrawal from parts of Donbas.
Official Statements
The United States, via Trump, expressed confidence in an imminent settlement. Russia, through Putin, reiterated that the conflict is close to resolution. Ukraine’s government, led by Zelensky, rejected any notion of approaching peace, citing ongoing Russian attacks and lack of credible progress. Lavrov’s April comment underscored Moscow’s low prioritization of talks.
Criticism & Opposition
Zelensky warned that “Russia has shown no intention of ending the war and is preparing further attacks,” and condemned renewed strikes as evidence that Moscow is “not serious about peace,” calling Russian demands for the entire Donbas unacceptable.
On-the-Ground Impact
After the ceasefire ended, Russian strikes killed at least six people in Dnipropetrovsk and deployed over 200 drones, damaging apartments and a kindergarten. Ukrainian authorities reported continued large-scale attacks despite diplomatic overtures.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Trump’s optimism contrasts sharply with Zelensky’s view that Russia shows no intent to cease hostilities. No settlement details have been disclosed and independent verification of progress is lacking. Ukraine’s front-line freeze proposal remains unconfirmed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The end of the war in Ukraine I really think it's getting very close,” — Donald Trump, President of the United States
- “President Volodymyr Zelensky has cast doubt on such claims, saying Russia has shown no intention of ending the war and warning that Moscow is preparing further attacks.” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
- “whatever is necessary.” — Donald Trump, President of the United States
Implications for Diplomatic Efforts
If the United States engages directly with Russia, including possible presidential travel, divergent narratives could shape mediation. Ukrainian skepticism and continued attacks may impede settlement, while U.S. focus on other regions could delay progress.
