In a recent Oval Office meeting, President Donald Trump likened the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia to a fight between two children, suggesting it might be better to let them “fight for a while” before stepping in to make peace. He described a conversation he had earlier in the week, where he told one of the leaders involved that continued fighting and suffering might be necessary before any resolution could take place.
Using a sports analogy, Trump compared the situation to referees in hockey who sometimes allow players to tussle before separating them. He explained that both sides in the conflict were enduring significant hardship, and sometimes letting tensions play out naturally could lead to a more lasting peace.
This marked a notable shift from Trump’s prior statements emphasizing a quick end to the violence. During the meeting, his guest carefully avoided confronting the remark directly, choosing instead to stress the shared desire to end the war and to place responsibility squarely on the aggressor.
The leaders also exchanged symbolic gifts, and the atmosphere remained amicable despite the heavy topic of discussion. Trump even joked about his counterpart being a tough negotiator, which he praised as a positive quality.
Following their meeting, the visiting leader described the interaction as productive and noted a personal rapport. While acknowledging their policy differences, the tone remained respectful, and a formal invitation to visit was extended.
The conversation adds to a long list of unpredictable statements from Trump on foreign affairs, this one suggesting a more passive approach to one of the world’s most pressing conflicts. It remains to be seen how this perspective will influence international diplomacy moving forward.