President Donald Trump says he was “being a little bit sarcastic” when he repeatedly claimed as a candidate that he would have the Russia-Ukraine war solved within 24 hours — and before he even took office.

President Donald Trump said he was “being a little bit sarcastic” when he said he could end the Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours, or before he even took office, on the campaign trail.

While on the campaign trail, Trump frequently touted his ability to broker peace between Ukraine and Russia, saying during a May 2023 CNN Town Hall that he would “have that done in 24 hours.” Months later, in a debate with then-Vice President Kamala Harris, he went even further, saying he would secure a resolution before even taking office.