Trump says peace deal is 'very close' - but Zelensky is 'prolonging' the war

Before Russia launched its attacks overnight, Donald Trump had suggested that a peace deal in Ukraine was "very close".

JD Vance had earlier outlined the US vision for a deal, saying it would set the front lines "close to where they are today", adding that Ukraine and Russia would have to "give up some of the territory they currently hold", the Telegraph reports.

The agreement is also planned to include US recognition of Russia's control over Crimea, the Ukrainian region illegally annexed by Moscow in 2014.

This point appears to be a sticking point for Volodymyr Zelensky, who has repeatedly said that Ukraine will not agree to give up Crimea as part of peace negotiations.

This angered Trump, who suggested in the Oval Office last night that he had an easier time dealing with Russia than Zelebsky.

"I think Russia is ready. And I think we have a deal with Russia. We have to make a deal with Zelensky," Trump told reporters.

"I thought it might be easier to deal with Zelensky. So far, it's been more difficult. But, I think we have an agreement with both of them," the US president added.

In an earlier post on Truth Social yesterday, Trump said Zelensky's stance on Crimea "will do nothing but extend the 'killing field' and no one wants that."