Trump Says Crimea Is ‘Already Russia,’ Urges Ukraine to Prioritize Peace Over Land

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In one of his most direct statements on the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Donald Trump declared that Crimea is “already Russia” and advised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to prioritize peace over territorial disputes. The comments have fueled an intense global debate about the role of diplomacy, sovereignty, and compromise in war.

Speaking at a fundraiser event in Florida, Trump told attendees, “You can’t turn back the clock. Crimea is effectively Russian now. We’re talking about years of occupation, infrastructure investment by Russia, and a population that’s been absorbed. At some point, you have to stop the bloodshed.”

The remarks came as Russia continued its intensified military operations in eastern Ukraine, while diplomatic talks remained deadlocked. Trump’s argument hinges on the idea that Ukraine’s continued insistence on regaining Crimea is unrealistic and counterproductive — a stance rejected by the Ukrainian government.

Zelenskyy responded firmly during a national address: “This is not just land. It is part of our home, our identity, and our law. No legitimate peace can be built on stolen ground.”

Critics of Trump’s view say it sets a dangerous international precedent. “If a country can invade, hold ground for a decade, and then get rewarded with recognition — what message does that send to aggressors?” asked Fiona Hill, former White House Russia adviser.

Others point out that while Trump emphasizes pragmatism and negotiation, his proposals ignore the legal, ethical, and historical complexities involved in the annexation of Crimea, which remains unrecognized by the United Nations.

Still, Trump’s supporters argue he is offering a practical route to ending a costly war. “If you want peace, you talk. If you want war, you hold grudges,” said one supporter at the Florida event.

As Trump positions himself for a potential return to the presidency, his foreign policy approach — especially regarding Ukraine — continues to draw both support and scrutiny, highlighting the deep divisions not only in the U.S. but across the international community about how best to achieve peace.