U.S. President Donald Trump warned at an Oval Office press briefing that the Ukraine conflict could spark a World War III, citing 25,000 recent deaths and urging that global conflict be avoided.
Trump Warns of World War III
President Donald Trump, speaking to journalists in the Oval Office, said that conflicts like the war in Ukraine could spiral into a global war. He warned that if the fighting continues as a series of “games,” it could end in a world war.
Remarks on Ukraine Conflict
Trump noted that 25 thousand people died last month, mostly soldiers and civilians caught in bombardments. He added that the war “doesn’t really affect the United States unless it gets out of control.” He reiterated that such situations end in world wars, urging end to killing.
Strong Phone Call with European Leaders
On Wednesday, December 10, Trump described a telephone conference with the presidents of France, Germany and the United Kingdom as “strong words.” He said further peace talks involving Europe might be “a waste of time” and that he must consider European proposals on Ukraine peace negotiations.
Paris Delegation Cancelled
A delegation from Ukraine, Europe and the U.S., scheduled to meet in Paris on Saturday, December 13, was cancelled as announced by the Élysée Palace.
Berlin Negotiations Set
Steve Witkoff, the White House’s special envoy, will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders in Berlin on Monday, December 15. The meeting follows Zelensky’s announcement of a revised peace proposal after rejecting several points of Trump’s initial plan.
White House Support for Talks
The White House confirmed the planned Berlin meeting and emphasized its role in continuing peace discussions aimed at ending the four‑year conflict in Ukraine.