Trump lands in Rome, urges Russia and Ukraine to “finish off” peace deal

US President Donald Trump has arrived in Rome ahead of the funeral of Pope Francis, scheduled to take place today, April 26.

Trump announced his arrival via a post on his social network, Truth Social, per Caliber.Az.

"Just landed in Rome. A good day in talks and meetings with Russia and Ukraine. They are very close to a deal, and the two sides should now meet, at very high levels, to 'finish it off.' Most of the major points are agreed to. Stop the bloodshed, NOW. We will be wherever is necessary to help facilitate the END to this cruel and senseless war!" Trump wrote.

Trump had earlier expressed optimism regarding ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, stating that Russia and Ukraine "are very close to a deal."

His comments came just hours after a high-level meeting in Moscow between his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting was viewed by Trump as a significant diplomatic development.

Describing the day’s negotiations as a breakthrough, Trump told reporters, "It had been a good day of negotiations," while the Kremlin characterised the discussions as “constructive.” Notably, Ukraine was not present at the Moscow meeting, raising questions about the balance and inclusivity of the emerging peace process.

Taking to social media, Trump emphasised: "Most of the major points are agreed to," and called for Russia and Ukraine to engage "at very high levels" to "finish it [the deal] off."

However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded cautiously in a video address on April 25, stressing that "real pressure on Russia is needed" for an unconditional ceasefire to be achieved. Earlier, Zelenskyy had indicated a potential willingness to discuss territorial disputes if Russia first agreed to a "full and unconditional ceasefire."

According to reports circulating in both Western and Russian media, the US-proposed peace framework could involve Ukraine ceding substantial areas of territory currently occupied by Russia—an idea strongly opposed by Kyiv. Trump has also publicly stated his readiness to support Russia retaining control of Crimea, annexed in 2014. Zelenskyy, meanwhile, has categorically rejected any proposals that would legitimise Russia's claim to Ukrainian land.

By Tamilla Hasanova