Trump answers press questions on October 13 (covering topics such as "energy ceasefire," Russian diesel deal, and military base in Poland)

— Ukraine hasn’t truly ceased fire. Putin isn’t listening to you. What’s your take?

— He will listen. It will work.

— Have we stopped providing intelligence to Ukraine?

— No, we’re still assisting them. But our support is aimed at guiding them toward a final resolution. We want the war to end. We assist them, share intelligence, and seek an end to hostilities. That’s why we’re engaging with both Ukraine and Russia—to bring the conflict to a close.

— How can you be so certain that Putin wants to end the war more than Zelenskyy does?

— Based on how we conduct business. I’ve spent my life negotiating deals. I believe Putin—well, I think both sides genuinely want to stop. They both want peace, but neither knows how to make it happen. The grievances run too deep. They don’t see the way forward, but we’ll bring them to the table.

— There are Republican senators who are unhappy about this diesel transaction. Has no one told you that Russia will use the proceeds from this sale to fund weapons production?

— No one has told me that. This diesel transaction isn’t for the benefit of the United States. The diesel is going to global markets—because high prices have already destabilized the market. Destroying refineries by bombing them is not a sound strategy.

— What about the proposed military base in Poland?

— They want to establish a base there. We’ll consider it. But they must pay for it themselves.

— Putin attacked Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

— Let’s wait and see. Both sides have crossed lines. You understand? In the end, these issues will be resolved. Why? Because that’s how things have always worked out.

— Russia struck six Ukrainian energy targets last night.

— Ukraine previously targeted numerous facilities as well.

— Don’t you think Russia violated the ceasefire?

— I’ll address that later. For now, it’s clear that both sides continue to attack each other. But the conflict will end. Both sides want peace—they just don’t know how to stop.

— Mr. President, doesn’t Russia need a new president? Shouldn’t Russia get a different leader?

— Want to see a true masterpiece? A genuine example of excellence? Look at this helipad! The architectural assessment it received was extraordinary. But what is this, really? Compared to what’s being built nearby, it’s nothing. See those cranes? The most powerful in the world—lifting massive steel beams! Red, yellow—huge ones! When completed, this site will house the world’s most advanced banquet hall. And look at this asphalt, Pete—so clean it shines!

Commentary: This approach reflects a transactional mindset typical of a businessman—underestimating the deeply entrenched territorial and security contradictions between Ukraine and Russia, assuming that a swift ceasefire can be brokered through mediation. While continuing intelligence support to Ukraine, the administration has eased restrictions on Russian diesel exports, a move generating significant domestic controversy. Many Republican lawmakers worry that revenue from the diesel sales may continue to finance Russian military operations. On the issue of a Polish base, the insistence that “the beneficiary pays” underscores a reluctance to shoulder Europe’s defense costs without compensation. When confronted with difficult or sensitive questions, Trump consistently shifts focus—enthusiastically describing ongoing construction projects—demonstrating a pattern of deflecting complex political inquiries by redirecting attention to tangible developments he personally values. His push for a rapid diplomatic breakthrough on ceasefire appears driven by electoral considerations ahead of midterm elections. However, the gap between Ukraine’s and Russia’s core demands remains vast, compounded by strong opposition within the U.S. and among European allies. Achieving a sustainable ceasefire under these conditions faces substantial obstacles.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1878975885278283/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.