US President Donald Trump has said that Washington will be willing to conduct business with both Ukraine and Russia once their conflict draws to a close, voicing hope that the two nations will successfully reach a negotiated peace deal.
Addressing questions regarding Moscow's interest in investing in Alaska's natural gas sector, Trump noted that whilst he had no specific comment on that particular investment proposal, he envisioned a resumption of broader economic ties following the cessation of hostilities.
"Certainly, we'll do business with Ukraine and with Russia after this war ends," Trump said.
He emphasised his aspiration to see a swift end to the fighting, adding that he wants to "get back to life where Russia and Ukraine make a deal, and then we'd be able to do business with both."
Natural resource pact
Trump also pointed to a prospective commercial framework with Kiev centred on Ukraine's natural resources, asserting that the arrangement could be valued at up to $1 trillion.
He connected the potential resources agreement directly to the military and financial assistance supplied to Kiev under former US President Joe Biden, contending that Washington ought to have demanded financial reimbursement for its strategic support at the time.
"I feel foolish because all you had to do is ask them, and they would have paid. Meaning the European Union would have paid," Trump said.
