Tue Feb 11 16:20:49 UTC 2025: ## Trump Proposes Ukraine Could Become Part of Russia, Sparks Controversy
**Munich, Germany – February 11, 2025** – US President Donald Trump’s suggestion that Ukraine could eventually become part of Russia has ignited a firestorm of controversy, overshadowing ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the nearly three-year war. In a Fox News interview, Trump floated the idea as a potential outcome of negotiations, stating, “They may be Russian someday, or they may not be Russian someday.”
This statement comes as Vice President JD Vance prepares for a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky this Friday at the Munich Security Conference. Trump also insisted on a return on US aid to Ukraine, demanding a substantial amount of rare earth minerals in exchange. He claimed an agreement had been reached on this point.
Trump announced that he will send special envoy Keith Kellogg to Ukraine on February 20th to propose a plan to halt the fighting. This initiative clashes with Zelensky’s demand for strong security guarantees from Washington, including potential NATO membership, to prevent Russia from regrouping after any potential agreement. Zelensky expressed concerns that a deal without firm military commitments could leave Ukraine vulnerable to another Russian attack.
While Zelensky’s spokesman confirmed the meeting with Vance, Zelensky himself called for “real peace and effective security guarantees” in a video address. He also confirmed a planned meeting with Trump, though no date has been set.
Trump claims to have spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who reportedly expressed a desire to end the bloodshed, though the Kremlin has yet to confirm this. Both Zelensky and Putin have previously ruled out direct talks.
The Munich Security Conference, which Zelensky will attend from February 14th-16th, will be a key forum for these discussions. While US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials will be present, Russia will not be represented.
The ongoing conflict continues to escalate, with Russia advancing in eastern Ukraine and targeting energy infrastructure. Ukrainian officials report continued attacks and the implementation of emergency power restrictions. Trump’s comments, however, have shifted the focus to the future political landscape of Ukraine, adding another layer of complexity to the already challenging peace negotiations.
First Piper 