Former U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticized a journalist for asking what he called a "dumb question" just before sitting down with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida. The meeting on Sunday, December 28, 2025, was part of ongoing efforts to broker an end to Russia's war against Ukraine, which began in 2022.
Heated Exchange Over Security Agreement Details
As the leaders prepared for talks, a reporter asked Trump if he was prepared to sign a security agreement for Ukraine's protection that day. The former president interrupted his own response to chastise the journalist. "What a stupid question. Nobody even knows what the security agreement is going to say," Trump stated.
He clarified that a security agreement was in the works, promising it would be strong and that European nations were deeply involved in both the negotiations and future protection for Ukraine. Trump praised European allies, saying they had been "really great" and were very supportive of the diplomatic process.
Addressing Recent Violence and Putin Phone Call
Another reporter pointed to Russia's deadly strikes on Ukraine the previous day, Saturday, which killed at least one person and injured several, questioning if it showed Russian President Vladimir Putin was not serious about peace. In response, Trump noted that Ukraine had also launched "very strong attacks" against Russia, suggesting recent explosions inside Russia likely originated from Ukraine.
"I don't think it came from the Congo. I don't think it came from the United States of America. It possibly came from Ukraine," Trump remarked, adding he might not bother to ask for confirmation. He expressed optimism, stating both countries appeared to be willing parties seeking an end to the conflict.
Trump revealed that just before the meeting with Zelenskyy, he had a "good and very productive telephone call" with Putin, posted on his Truth Social platform. His message to the Russian leader was straightforward: "We have got to make a deal." Trump indicated he believed the foundations for an agreement were present.
Progress Claimed in High-Stakes Talks
Following the discussions with the Ukrainian president, Trump offered a positive assessment, claiming they had covered "95%" of the issues necessary to resolve the prolonged war. The meeting at the private Florida club represents the latest round in a series of high-profile diplomatic engagements spearheaded by Trump since leaving office.
The incident underscores the volatile nature of the negotiations and the intense global scrutiny on any potential path to peace in Eastern Europe. The involvement of European nations, as stressed by Trump, highlights the multinational effort required to secure a lasting agreement.
