Trump, US, and Zelensky Clash Over Crimea Peace

Former President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for refusing to consider ceding Crimea to Russia as part of a peace deal, calling Zelensky's stance 'very harmful' to negotiations. Trump argued Crimea was lost to Russia in 2014 and questioned Ukraine's defense of the territory at that time, stating it should not be discussed now. Zelensky responded that recognizing Russia's annexation of Crimea would violate Ukraine's constitution and insisted Ukrainian land is not negotiable. The U.S. has reportedly proposed a peace plan allowing Russia to retain Crimea and other occupied territories, a stance some European officials have informally acknowledged as likely. Trump warned Ukraine faces a dire choice between peace and prolonged conflict, suggesting Zelensky's refusal could extend the war and increase casualties. These developments come as talks between the U.S., Europe, and Ukraine continue amid significant international scrutiny.