Trump: Ukraine Conflict Is My Greatest Disappointment
President Donald Trump expressed deep frustration over his failure to end the war in Ukraine, while urging Europe to stop purchasing Russian oil as a way to pressure Moscow.
At a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on September 18, Trump said that not being able to resolve the Russia–Ukraine conflict was his “greatest disappointment.” He had previously suggested that his personal ties with President Vladimir Putin could help bring about a quick resolution, but admitted that events had not unfolded as he expected. “He really disappointed me,” Trump said.
Still, Trump voiced optimism that Moscow and Kyiv would eventually reach a settlement, promising “good news soon” without providing details. He reiterated his call for European nations to halt Russian oil imports, arguing that lower prices would force Putin to abandon the campaign in Ukraine.
Prime Minister Starmer confirmed that he had discussed with Trump ways to increase pressure on Putin, stressing that U.S. leadership was critical. While positioning himself as a bridge between Trump and European allies, Starmer avoided placing direct pressure on the U.S. president.
The two leaders also acknowledged differences, particularly over Britain’s plan to recognize a Palestinian state—something Washington firmly opposes.
Since returning to the White House, Trump has intensified his diplomatic efforts on Ukraine, holding a summit with Putin in Alaska on August 15 and later meeting European leaders and President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington. Yet those initiatives have produced no concrete outcome. On September 13, Trump warned that the U.S. would sanction Russia if NATO partners also stopped buying its oil.
In July, Starmer announced that the U.K. intended to recognize Palestinian statehood at the U.N. General Assembly in September, unless Israel agreed to conditions including a ceasefire in Gaza—a move rejected by Washington despite support from France, Canada, and other allies.