The Trump administration is reportedly considering a controversial proposal to recognize Crimea as part of Russia as part of a broader effort to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to two sources familiar with the discussions, the administration has also explored the possibility of urging the United Nations to adopt a similar stance, aligning U.S. policy with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s longstanding claim over the region.
This potential shift in policy comes as former President Donald Trump prepares for a call with Putin on March 18, during which a proposed 30-day ceasefire is expected to be discussed. While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump hinted that negotiators had already explored the idea of “dividing up certain assets,” though he did not provide further details.
Despite the growing speculation, the White House has not made any final decisions. National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes issued a statement denying any commitments, stressing that the administration would not negotiate through the media.
The consideration of territorial concessions has been a subject of previous U.S. discussions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged the harsh realities Ukrainians are facing but suggested that some compromise might be necessary for peace. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected any notion of giving up territory, and European allies would likely oppose a change in U.S. policy on this issue.
Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014, continues to be internationally recognized as part of Ukraine. While experts remain skeptical about Ukraine’s ability to retake Crimea through military action, Zelensky has acknowledged that its return may require diplomatic efforts—something Russia has shown little interest in pursuing.
Trump’s stance on Crimea is not new. In 2018, he suggested that Crimeans favored Russian rule, adding fuel to the debate over the region’s future. As the conflict drags on, the question of Crimea’s status remains one of the most contentious issues in the war’s resolution.
