US President Donald Trump believes that only a negotiated agreement can bring an end to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, according to State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce. Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, Bruce emphasized that Trump views diplomacy as the only realistic path forward in the complex and evolving situation, reports RT.
The comment comes amid a renewed round of direct negotiations between Moscow and Kiev, held in Türkiye, after a long pause since 2022 when Ukraine shifted its focus toward military resistance. U.S. officials have quietly supported efforts to resume talks, with Bruce suggesting that Trump’s push for diplomacy played a role in re-engaging the two sides.
“Only the president can make the decision about how to proceed,” Bruce said. “Only he knows all the elements about what’s important and how we’re going to make a difference. There is one guiding hand to the choices that we make, and that includes how we approach the Russia–Ukraine conflict.”
When asked whether recent comments from Russian President Vladimir Putin signaled a lack of seriousness about peace, Bruce declined to speculate. Putin had stated that Russia is not seeking an “unconditional surrender,” but insisted Ukraine must acknowledge “realities on the ground,” warning that Kiev's negotiating position is weakening over time.
Bruce responded that negotiations are by nature fluid. “That’s the whole point of diplomacy: you’re constantly signaling, reassessing. We’ve heard some very blunt comments by President Trump about President Putin as well,” she noted.
She reiterated that while the U.S. remains Ukraine’s largest supporter, it is not reacting to isolated remarks or online narratives. Instead, the administration is focused on long-term diplomatic efforts and sustained behind-the-scenes engagement with all parties involved.
Asked whether Washington is considering new sanctions in response to Moscow's military posture, Bruce declined to outline specific punitive actions. “We’re not going to listen to what Russia says — we’re going to watch what they do,” she said.
Bruce also confirmed that direct communication between Moscow and Washington has continued for several months, involving a mix of diplomatic and strategic engagement. She framed Trump’s leadership as central to navigating the complexities of global conflict resolution.
“President Trump, as the most powerful leader in the world right now, is in a unique position to understand and shape outcomes in a way the public or press simply can’t,” she said.
The return to negotiations marks a potential turning point in the conflict, though both sides remain far apart on core issues. For now, the U.S. is signaling cautious optimism — and continued influence — behind closed doors.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
