Trump presents map of territories allegedly controlled by Russia to Zelenskyy for discussion
In the Oval Office, a large map of Ukraine took centre stage during a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The map, reported by the BBC and ntv.de, was prominently displayed behind the negotiating table, with Zelensky thanking Trump for providing it[1].
The map, shaded pink in the eastern part, indicated territories under the control of Putin's forces. During the meeting, Zelensky pointed to various areas on the map, discussing frontline details and expressing his determination to "take the map back home." The discussion was said to be amicable and productive, focusing on assessing battlefield lines and exploring potential peace settlements[2].
The placement of the map and the closed-door negotiations have raised concerns about potential political manipulation. However, the context suggests that the map was used as a reference for negotiating peace terms and understanding the current situation on the ground, rather than a tool to pressure Ukraine to cede territory[1][3].
Following the meeting, Zelensky engaged in trilateral talks with the US and Russia, aiming to find a diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict. Since then, Ukraine has managed to retake significant territory in the Kharkiv and Kherson regions, according to the Kyiv Post and Deep State, a portal close to the Ukrainian army[4].
It is important to note that the Russian forces achieved their greatest gains in the first days of the large-scale invasion that began on February 24, 2022. However, their territorial gains since November 2022, amounting to less than one percent of Ukraine's landmass, have been less substantial[5].
The photo of Trump and Zelensky in the Oval Office, standing in front of the map, has caused a stir on Twitter. Despite the speculation, the records do not provide clear evidence that the map was intended by Trump to pressure Ukraine to cede territory. Instead, the focus remains on the ongoing diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict[1][3].
[1] ntv.de [2] BBC [3] jki [4] Kyiv Post, Deep State [5] Kyiv Post
- The European Union, with its responsibility to maintain peace and security within its borders, should closely monitor the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, especially as it may influence the EU's nuclear programme's implementation.
- The conversation between Trump and Zelensky, amidst war-and-conflicts, underscores the importance of politics and general-news in shaping international relations, suggesting a need for continued dialogue and diplomacy to achieve peace settlements.
