Trump Claims to Have Reached Basic Consensus with Putin on Ending Russia-Ukraine Conflict

On August 15 local time, after meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he had largely reached a consensus with Putin, believing that the Russia-Ukraine conflict would end through territorial exchanges and some form of U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine.

"Well, I think these are the key points of our negotiations, and we have largely reached an agreement," Trump said. "In fact, I feel we have consensus on many aspects."

"I think we are very close to ending the conflict. However, Ukraine must agree to this plan," he added.

Temporarily Withdraws Threat of "Severe Consequences" Against Russia

Trump also stated that due to the "very smooth" talks between the two sides, he would temporarily shelve plans to impose further sanctions or other "severe consequences" on Russia.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump said, "Because of what happened today, I don't think we need to consider this issue for now." He added, "Maybe in two or three weeks I'll need to think about it, but not now."