Kathmandu, April 24: Former US President Donald Trump has accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of sabotaging peace talks, reigniting tensions over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The remarks came after Zelensky reaffirmed that Ukraine would never recognize Russia’s control over Crimea.

Posting on his platform Truth Social, Trump claimed that a peace agreement to end the war was “very close”, but warned that Zelensky’s refusal to accept US terms could prolong the conflict. “We were near a historic agreement,” Trump wrote, “but Zelensky is standing in the way.”

Adding to the controversy, US Vice President JD Vance clarified the US stance, saying that the proposed peace framework would “bring stability where there are territorial borders today.” The statement hints at a controversial willingness to freeze current frontlines, possibly leaving Crimea under de facto Russian control.

However, Ukraine has consistently maintained that it will not cede any territory, including Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014 in a move widely condemned by the international community as illegal.

The accusations from Trump signal a sharp divide over how the US should approach the war, especially as it gears up for election season. While some US leaders support continued Ukrainian resistance, others are pushing for a negotiated settlement — even if that means Ukraine loses territory.

As the war drags on, the possibility of internationally brokered peace talks remains complicated by internal politics, shifting alliances, and unresolved disputes over sovereignty and borders.