Despite early confidence in swiftly resolving the war in Ukraine, President Donald Trump’s efforts have encountered significant delays and diplomatic challenges.

During his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in New York last September, then-presidential candidate Trump assured a quick resolution if elected. Initially pledging to settle the conflict before taking office, he later adjusted the timeline, promising an end within 24 hours of his presidency. However, after more than two months in office, Trump recently admitted in a television interview that his statements were "a little bit sarcastic."

One of the key challenges has been Trump's reliance on direct negotiations. His calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 12 and March 18 did not yield an immediate ceasefire, despite a Russian commitment to halt attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure—a promise that Kyiv claims was broken within hours. Additionally, Putin has shown no urgency in reaching an agreement, demanding that negotiations address broader geopolitical concerns, including NATO expansion and Russia’s perceived security threats.

Tensions have also emerged between Washington and Kyiv, with the Trump administration viewing Zelensky as a potential obstacle to peace. A tense Oval Office meeting between Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Zelensky highlighted these disagreements, straining transatlantic relations and delaying diplomatic progress.

The complexity of the conflict itself has further hindered negotiations. While initial discussions focused on a ceasefire in the air and at sea, the U.S. later pushed for an expanded truce along the 1,200-kilometer front line in eastern Ukraine—a proposal swiftly rejected by Moscow. Upcoming technical talks in Saudi Arabia aim to clarify details regarding infrastructure protection and military restrictions.

Meanwhile, Trump’s emphasis on securing economic benefits for the U.S. has also caused friction. His administration has pushed for American firms to gain access to Ukraine’s critical minerals as part of a broader deal. Zelensky initially sought security guarantees in exchange, but later conceded without them. Despite this, the U.S. has yet to finalize the agreement, reportedly seeking better terms, including potential stakes in Ukraine’s nuclear energy sector.

While Trump's persistence has moved negotiations forward, the process has proven far more complex than he initially envisioned. As diplomatic efforts continue, the road to a lasting peace remains uncertain.