Trump Says Russia, Ukraine May Have to ‘Keep Fighting’ Before They’re Ready for Peace

The president said the Russia–Ukraine fighting might escalate because there is a ‘lot of hatred’ between the two sides.

U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in the Oval Office on June 5, 2025. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

WASHINGTON—Russia and Ukraine may have to keep fighting before they are willing to consider peace, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested during a June 5 White House event.

Speaking with reporters while hosting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the White House, Trump compared the more-than-three-year war between Russia and Ukraine to a fight between children.