Trump Says U.S. Will Not Directly Broker Russia-Ukraine Peace Deal

U.S. President Donald Trump said it is not his role to negotiate a settlement between Russia and Ukraine, though he is prepared to help facilitate talks. Speaking to reporters on 11 August and reiterating the point on 15 August, Trump stated, “It’s not for me to negotiate a deal for Ukraine, but I can certainly set the table to negotiate the deal.” Trump’s comments signal that the White House does not intend to act as a direct mediator in the conflict but remains open to supporting diplomatic efforts led by the parties involved or by third-party intermediaries.