Washington: US President Donald Trump has once again stirred global debate with his comments on the Russia-Ukraine war. On Friday (August 22, 2025), Trump likened the idea of a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodimir Jailonsky to “mixing oil and vinegar,” emphasizing the deep incompatibility between the two leaders.
Speaking to reporters, Trump remarked, “We will see if Putin and Jailonsky can find a solution together. It is like mixing oil and vinegar. Both do not walk with each other at all, but let’s see what happens.” The statement underscored Trump’s skepticism about any near-term peace agreement in the war that has already claimed thousands of lives.
‘No Hope of Peace at the Moment’
Trump highlighted the staggering human cost of the ongoing conflict, claiming that around 7,000 people are being killed every week—most of them soldiers. “All this is very stupid,” he said, stressing the urgent need for dialogue but distancing himself from taking a direct role.
When asked if he would personally attend a Putin–Jailonsky meeting, Trump replied, “Let’s see. I do not want to join myself. It would be better if they talk directly and find a way out.”
Russia Rejects Meeting Possibility
Despite Trump’s comments, Moscow dismissed the speculation. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told NBC that “no such meeting is scheduled.” His statement reflects the hardened positions of both Russia and Ukraine, making any breakthrough seem distant.
Trump’s Claim of Stopping Wars
Trump reiterated his long-standing claim that he halted seven wars during his first tenure as President, expressing his desire to see the Russia-Ukraine war end. However, he admitted that the current crisis is “probably the most difficult” conflict yet.
The US President has repeatedly made it clear that he does not intend to deploy American troops to Ukraine. He also ruled out the possibility of Ukraine’s quick accession to NATO or the return of Crimea from Russian control, both of which remain critical demands of Kyiv.
White House Talks with Jailonsky
Earlier this week, Trump held an extensive meeting at the White House with Ukrainian President Volodimir Jailonsky and several European leaders. The discussions reportedly focused on security guarantees, humanitarian aid, and the broader strategy to address the escalating war.
Still, Trump’s remarks about Putin and Jailonsky being as incompatible as “oil and vinegar” highlight the grim reality of stalled diplomacy. For now, the hope of peace appears remote, with both Moscow and Kyiv unwilling to compromise.