Fact check: It wasn’t ‘in jest.’ Here are 53 times Trump said he’d end Ukraine war within 24 hours or before taking office
Former President Donald Trump has repeatedly asserted that he could end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours of taking office or even before his inauguration, a claim he originally made during his 2023 and 2024 campaign rallies and debates. Despite later suggesting that his statements were made 'in jest' during a Time magazine interview, these promises were delivered in a serious tone as a key component of his campaign agenda. Trump has consistently emphasized his ability to quickly resolve the conflict, citing his relationships with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as crucial factors. His declarations were not casual remarks but part of his prepared speeches, indicating a central role in his proposed second-term objectives. Critics question the feasibility of such a rapid resolution, yet Trump remains adamant about his capacity to achieve peace swiftly through his leadership skills and diplomatic connections.
Donald Trump repeatedly declared during his 2023 and 2024 campaign rallies and debates that he would end the Ukraine war within 24 hours of assuming office or even before his inauguration, which he claimed was possible due to his understanding of both Russian and Ukrainian leaders.
In a Time magazine interview, Trump later suggested that his statements were made 'figuratively' and 'in jest,' but evidence shows he consistently delivered these promises with seriousness, framing them as a central part of his campaign platform.
Trump's pledge to swiftly resolve the Ukraine conflict was a staple of his prepared speeches, not off-the-cuff remarks, and he positioned this promise as a crucial element of his proposed second-term agenda, highlighting his credentials as a 'peacemaker'.
Despite skepticism from critics regarding the feasibility of such a quick resolution, Trump maintained his confidence in his ability to negotiate peace through his diplomatic connections and personal rapport with Putin and Zelensky.
A database search revealed at least 53 instances where Trump made these claims publicly, demonstrating that his intentions were not a one-time rhetorical device but a repeated and serious campaign commitment.