Trump Claims His Promise to End Ukraine War in 24 Hours Was Just ‘Sarcasm’

US President Donald Trump remarked that he was being “a little bit sarcastic” when he frequently claimed during his 2024 presidential campaign that he could conclude the war in Ukraine in just 24 hours, even before taking office.

During an interview with a US media outlet, Trump was probed about his campaign promise as his administration worked to negotiate a resolution nearly two months into his second term.

“Well, I was being a little bit sarcastic when I said that,” Trump explained in a clip released prior to the episode airing on Sunday. “What I truly mean is that I’d like to see it resolved and I believe I can be successful.”

This admission was unusual for Trump, who is known for making grandiose claims.

At a UJ town hall in May 2023, Trump stated, “They’re dying, Russians and Ukrainians. I want them to stop dying. And I’ll have that done — I’ll have that done in 24 hours.”

“That is a conflict that’s ready to be resolved. I will settle it before I even become president,” Trump declared during his September debate with then-Vice President Kamala Harris. “If I win, when I’m president-elect, I’ll reach out to both sides and bring them together.”

Trump expressed that he’s receiving “good vibes” from Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, praising his Russian counterpart for “really wanting” peace. The 47th US president also mentioned that he believes an agreement could be on the horizon.

Trump’s Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, was in Moscow this week for discussions regarding a US-proposed temporary ceasefire, which Ukraine has agreed to.

In the interview, Trump was also questioned about his plan if Putin refuses to agree to a ceasefire regarding the war he initiated three years ago.

“Bad news for this world because so many people are dying,” Trump remarked.

“But I think he’s going to agree. I genuinely do. I believe I know him well and I think he will come to an agreement.”