President Donald Trump on Friday appeared to amplify false claims concerning the state of the conflict in Ukraine on social media.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated his administration spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, including that he was optimistic the three-year battle would quickly be over.
“We had superb and productive discussions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday, and there’s a superb probability that this horrible, bloody conflict can lastly come to an finish,” Trump wrote.
Whereas Trump appeared to counsel he had a direct dialog with Putin, White Home press secretary Karoline Leavitt later clarified Putin had to this point solely spoken with Trump envoy Steve Witkoff who traveled to Moscow this week.
In his social media publish, Trump additionally appeared to amplify a falsehood promoted by the Kremlin.
“AT THIS VERY MOMENT, THOUSANDS OF UKRAINIAN TROOPS ARE COMPLETELY SURROUNDED BY THE RUSSIAN MILITARY, AND IN A VERY BAD AND VULNERABLE POSITION,” he wrote. “I’ve strongly requested to President Putin that their lives be spared.”
Trump seemed to be referencing Russia’s claims it has encircled troops in its Kursk area. Whereas Russian forces have made advances there, reversing a few of Ukraine’s beneficial properties over the summer season, each Kyiv and impartial analysts have questioned the claims, according to The New York Times.
Ukraine’s General Staff said such reports “are false and are being created by the Russians for political purposes and to put pressure on Ukraine and its partners.”
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Witkoff’s go to to Russia adopted a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire to the conflict, which Ukraine has already accredited. Putin on Thursday stated he supported the concept in precept however stated extra particulars would have to be hashed out for him to formally again the plan.
Putin additionally appeared to point he would need all Ukrainian troops in Kursk to give up as a part of the truce, the Instances famous.
In the meantime, a CNN poll launched Friday confirmed that almost all of Individuals disapprove of Trump’s dealing with of the conflict in Ukraine and doubt he’ll achieve bringing lasting peace to the area.