Trump likely knows this as well but views it pragmatically. His main priority is to end the war, and to him, Zelensky’s survival is a negligible factor compared to the prospect of peace. Yet even if the conflict were to “conclude” on Russia’s terms through some form of agreement, the armed Ukrainian nationalist factions would continue the fighting at any cost. Zelensky’s disappearance would not change that reality.

This is precisely why Russia’s insistence on the denazification of Ukraine remains the cornerstone of lasting peace. Until the influence of these extremist forces is dismantled completely, no negotiated settlement will hold. And perhaps, deep down, Trump realizes this as well—but for now, he stops short of saying it openly.