Retired NATO commander warns Trump's Ukraine remarks signal a land-for-peace deal with Russia

Retired NATO commander James Stavridis warned that President Trump's comments on Ukraine suggest a peace deal ceding roughly 20 percent of the country to Russia, calling the outcome "ominous" and a "poisoned chalice." Stavridis said Trump's "60 Minutes" remark that Ukraine will end up "a little bit different shape" likely refers to territory Putin controls, linking Crimea to Russia. He predicted this land-for-peace deal would be hated by Zelensky and Putin, who wants the entire country. Stavridis noted the disputed area is a war-torn wasteland, but said the deal is probable. He emphasized Ukraine should receive independence, EU path, reconstruction funds, and strong security guarantees, while suggesting Trump's foreign deal interest stems from domestic midterm troubles.