Hopes for peace are emerging as the Trump administration spearheads negotiations with Russia to resolve the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. President Trump expressed confidence in his ability to bring the war to an end following initial discussions between U.S. and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia. However, he also suggested that Ukrainian President Zelenskyy could have resolved the situation earlier.

Trump remarked on Tuesday, "I believe I can end this war, and I think progress is being made. But I've heard concerns about Ukraine not being invited to the initial talks. They've been in this conflict for three years and could have resolved it sooner." He implied that Ukraine had a role in the conflict's origin, despite Russia's 2022 invasion.

Regarding the pressure on Ukraine to hold elections, a condition Russia has set for a peace agreement, Trump clarified that this wasn't solely a Russian demand but a viewpoint shared by the U.S. and other nations. He highlighted the devastation Ukraine has faced, stating, "Ukraine is being significantly impacted." Zelenskyy's five-year term was due to end in 2024, but martial law, in effect since February 2022, prevents elections according to the Ukrainian constitution.

The White House described the initial talks in Saudi Arabia between U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Russian representatives including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Putin's advisor Yuri Ushakov, as a "significant milestone." While Ukraine was not present at these initial discussions, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the administration's commitment to a peaceful resolution.

Leavitt stated, "These initial discussions represent a substantial first step toward peace." Zelenskyy, speaking alongside Turkish President Erdoğan, confirmed Ukraine's non-invitation to the talks and postponed his Saudi Arabia trip. He has consistently maintained that Ukraine's participation in any negotiations is essential. Leavitt assured that all parties, including European allies, would be included in future discussions.

Leavitt confirmed Trump's communication with Zelenskyy and other European leaders. Trump also spoke with Zelenskyy on Wednesday, during which Zelenskyy expressed his belief that Putin isn't genuinely interested in peace. Zelenskyy underscored in an interview that no agreement about Ukraine should be made without Ukraine's involvement.

Trump has assured Zelenskyy's inclusion in the peace process. Secretary of State Rubio indicated that restoring diplomatic missions in Washington and Moscow is a priority. Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, and Trump pledged during his 2024 campaign to work towards ending the conflict.