Trump's Chilling Ukraine Strategy Let Them Bleed?

Article Heading: Trump Suggests Letting Ukraine and Russia 'Fight for a While' Before Pursuing Peace

In a surprising statement, former President Donald Trump indicated that it might be beneficial to allow Ukraine and Russia to "fight for a while" before intervening to broker peace. This remark came during an Oval Office meeting with Germany's new Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, who had appealed to Trump as a pivotal figure capable of influencing Vladimir Putin to halt the ongoing conflict.

Trump likened the war in Ukraine, which began with Russia's invasion in February 2022, to a squabble between two children. He suggested that, much like referees in sports, sometimes it's better to let conflicts play out briefly before stepping in. He claimed to have conveyed this analogy to Putin during a recent call, saying, "President, maybe you're going to have to keep fighting and suffering a lot... before you pull them apart, before they're able to be pulled apart."

Key Highlights from the Meeting:

• Trump suggested letting Ukraine and Russia "fight for a while."
• Chancellor Merz emphasized that the U.S. and Germany agree on the severity of the war.
• Merz sees Trump as the "key person" to put pressure on Russia.
• Merz invited Trump to visit Germany, referring to it as "his home country."

Despite these comments, Trump also reiterated his desire to end the bloodshed in Ukraine. Chancellor Merz carefully navigated Trump's assertions, emphasizing the shared understanding between the U.S. and Germany regarding the war's devastation. He firmly placed the blame for the violence on Putin and underscored Germany's solidarity with Ukraine.

Merz stated, "We are both looking for ways to stop it very soon," adding that he believes Trump is uniquely positioned to exert pressure on Russia. This meeting marked the first in-person encounter between the two leaders.

A Cordial Exchange:

The meeting began on a positive note, with Merz presenting Trump with a gold-framed birth certificate of his grandfather, Friedrich Trump, who immigrated to America from Germany. Trump, in turn, described Merz as a "very good man to deal with" and a "great representative of Germany."

Germany's Support for Ukraine:

Merz, who assumed office with a strong business background, has actively engaged in diplomacy concerning Ukraine. He has visited Kyiv with other European leaders and hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin. He has expressed gratitude for Trump's support for an unconditional ceasefire while opposing any form of "dictated peace" or "subjugation" of Ukraine. He also advocates for increased sanctions against Russia.

Potential Sanctions on Both Sides:

Trump also mentioned the possibility of imposing sanctions on both Russia and Ukraine, stating that such measures would be guided by him rather than Capitol Hill. "When I see the moment where it's not going to stop... we'll be very, very tough," he said. "And it could be on both countries, to be honest. It takes two to tango."

Merz's Appeal on D-Day Anniversary:

Using the anniversary of D-Day, Merz appealed to Trump to help bring an end to the war in Ukraine. He highlighted the historical significance of June 6, 1944, as the day that began the liberation of Europe from Nazi rule, urging America to play a similar role in ending the current conflict.

Germany's Defense Spending:

Merz's government is also working to strengthen Germany's military. While Trump has previously criticized Germany for not meeting NATO's defense spending target, he acknowledged that Berlin is now increasing its defense expenditure.

Trade Concerns:

Another key priority for Merz is revitalizing Germany's economy. However, Trump's tariff threats pose a potential challenge to the country's exports. Trump has specifically targeted the German auto sector, aiming to reduce the trade deficit between the two countries. While trade negotiations fall under the purview of the European Union, Trump hinted at potential tariffs if a trade deal is not reached.

In conclusion, the meeting between Trump and Merz highlighted the complexities of the ongoing situation in Ukraine and the differing perspectives on how to achieve peace. While Trump's "fight for a while" comment raised eyebrows, the dialogue underscored the importance of continued diplomatic efforts and the potential for the U.S. and Germany to work together to address the crisis.

Tags: Trump, Ukraine, Russia, War, Putin, Conflict, Diplomacy, Germany, Merz, US President

Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/06/06/nx-s1-5425195/trump-ukraine-russia-putin-merz