U.S. President Donald Trump believes that Vladimir Putin will uphold his commitment regarding a potential agreement to end the war in Ukraine, and that the U.S. will not need to be physically involved in ensuring Ukraine's security.
"When we reach an agreement, it will be followed," - Trump said during a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday in Washington.
Commenting on U.S. military involvement in Ukraine's security, he stated: "I don't think we will be needed." "We need to ensure that this agreement is long-lasting," Trump added.
During the conference, the U.S. President also expressed confidence that the UK could defend itself independently if Russia were to attack British troops in Ukraine.
"What I've always known about the British is that they don't require special assistance. They can take care of themselves very well... The British have been incredible soldiers, incredible military. But if help is needed, I will always stand with the English, I will always be with them. But they don't need help, if you look at their record," he stated.
"Could you handle Russia on your own?" Trump asked Starmer. "Sure," he replied before laughing.
Before that, when asked about the possibility of deploying peacekeeping forces in Ukraine, he linked it to the conclusion of a mining agreement in Ukraine.
"You're talking about peacekeeping forces. We need to finalize an agreement first. Right now we are negotiating. We have Russia, here is Ukraine, I think we have made significant progress. And Russia is playing very well, represented by Steve Witkoff... I believe we are very close to an agreement," Trump said.