U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by suggesting that Ukraine might not survive its ongoing war with Russia, further fueling concerns over his administration’s shifting stance on the conflict.

In an interview with Fox News aired on Sunday, Trump was asked whether he was comfortable with halting U.S. aid to Ukraine, despite fears it could impact the country’s survival. He responded, “Well, it might not survive anyway.”

Trump also downplayed Russia’s role in the war, stating that “it takes two” to engage in a conflict, before adding, “So now we are stuck with this mess.”

Under Trump’s leadership, the U.S. has made a drastic U-turn in its approach to Ukraine, suspending support for Kyiv in what the White House describes as an effort to push President Volodymyr Zelensky into peace negotiations.

Trump has previously blamed Zelensky for prolonging the war, even calling him a “dictator” during a tense meeting at the White House. While their relationship has since improved, U.S. aid to Ukraine remains frozen.

READ ALSO:Trump pressures Ukraine for ceasefire amid tense diplomacy

Despite his recent pro-Russia rhetoric, Trump rejects claims that he is siding with Moscow. He insists he has been “very tough” on Russia, citing his opposition to the Nord Stream 2 pipeline between Russia and Germany during his first term in office.

Meanwhile, peace efforts continue as Ukrainian and U.S. officials hold exploratory talks in Saudi Arabia. Zelensky confirmed in a Sunday night address that he will travel to Jeddah to pursue further negotiations.

“Tomorrow, we will continue working for peace. I will visit Saudi Arabia,” he stated, expressing optimism about progress made so far.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is also set to join the talks, with plans to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The discussions aim to explore a potential resolution to the war while securing continued international support for Ukraine.

Following the Saudi meetings, Rubio will head to Canada for a gathering with other G7 leaders, as global efforts to address the crisis continue.

NAN