On Sunday, former President Donald Trump urged Russia to stop its attacks on Ukraine. His statement came after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Rome, where both leaders discussed efforts to end the ongoing war. Trump expressed disappointment that Russia has continued its attacks, despite his efforts to help find a solution.

Speaking to reporters in New Jersey, Trump said that Zelenskyy appeared calmer during their conversation and seemed ready to make a deal. “I think he understands the situation and wants to negotiate a peace agreement,” Trump stated.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that if there is no progress in peace talks soon, the U.S. might abandon its efforts. Rubio emphasized that the country cannot keep dedicating resources to the peace process without seeing results.

The meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy took place in Rome while both were attending the funeral of Pope Francis. This was their first meeting since a tense encounter at the White House in February. Trump criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying there was no reason for Russia to target civilian areas with missiles.

In response, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov confirmed that Russia would continue to target military sites in Ukraine.