Conflicts

Donald Trump has claimed that Vladimir Putin is "destroying Russia" by refusing to reach an agreement with Ukraine to end the conflict, which is set to enter its third year in February.

Speaking after signing several executive orders on his first day in the White House, Donald Trump addressed the situation in Ukraine, arguing that Moscow’s stance is harming a country already facing severe economic challenges.

"He should make a deal. I think he's destroying Russia by not making a deal. I think Russia's going to be in big trouble," he told reporters.

The U.S. president also mentioned the possibility of meeting with the Russian leader to negotiate a peace agreement.

"I got along with him great. I would hope he wants to make a deal. He can't be thrilled he's not doing so well. I mean, he's grinding it out, but most people thought that war would have been over in about one week, and now you're into three years, right," the American leader added.

(QG - Source: Moscow Times / Picture: © Unsplash)