Washington, Dec 16 (NationPress) Expressing cautious optimism that months of conflict might soon be resolved, US President Donald Trump stated that discussions aimed at concluding the Russia–Ukraine war have progressed towards a potential breakthrough following extensive dialogues with European leaders and Ukrainian officials in Berlin.

Trump informed reporters that he engaged in “very long and very productive talks” with a diverse group of European leaders, emphasizing that the war in Ukraine was a primary focus of their conversations.

“We had a very good conversation one hour ago with the European leaders, many of them concerning the war with Russia and Ukraine,” Trump remarked. “We had a lengthy discussion, and things are seemingly moving forward positively.”

He indicated that he had direct conversations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and leaders from Germany, Italy, NATO, Finland, France, the United Kingdom, Poland, Norway, Denmark, and the Netherlands, characterizing the talks as coordinated and substantial.

“We had lengthy and productive discussions, and again, I believe things are progressing well,” he added.

The President highlighted the humanitarian toll of the conflict, referencing recent casualty reports. “This should not happen. It should never have occurred,” he stated.

Trump also mentioned multiple discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting that Moscow may now be more open to a resolution. “We’ve had numerous talks with President Putin of Russia, and I feel we are closer now than we have ever been,” he said.

“We want to preserve many lives,” Trump emphasized.

However, Trump cautioned that advancements remain tenuous. “Russia desires to conclude it, but the issue is they may want it to end and then suddenly they won’t,” he remarked. “Ukraine also wants it resolved, but there might be a change of heart.”

He stressed the need to align both parties “on the same page,” adding, “I believe that’s in progress.”

Describing the level of devastation as unprecedented in modern Europe, Trump stated, “When you’re losing 25,000 to 30,000 soldiers, primarily military personnel, along with civilians from cities like Kyiv and other areas in Ukraine, it’s extremely grave. No one has witnessed anything like this since World War II.”

Trump noted that European leaders share a unified goal to end the war. “They also want it concluded,” he said, emphasizing that collaboration with NATO partners remains strong.

In response to questions, Trump expressed his belief that Putin wishes for the conflict to cease. “I genuinely believe that President Putin wants to see it end,” he said. “I think they would prefer to return to a more normal existence.”

He added that discussions are underway regarding security assurances to avert renewed hostilities. “We’re cooperating with Europe on it,” Trump stated. “Europe will play a significant role in that.”

The ongoing war in Ukraine, now in its fourth year, has emerged as the largest conflict in Europe since World War II, altering global energy markets, food supply chains, and security alliances. The United States and NATO allies have delivered extensive military and financial assistance to Kyiv, while diplomatic efforts to cease the fighting have intensified amid increasing battlefield casualties.

India has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomacy, maintaining engagement with both Moscow and Kyiv while underscoring respect for sovereignty and the urgent need for an immediate halt to hostilities—a stance New Delhi has reiterated in various international forums.