President Donald Trump admitted Friday that his repeated campaign promise to resolve the Russia-Ukraine war in 24 hours was “a little bit sarcastic.” The statement came during an interview for the “Full Measure” television program, 54 days into his second term, as his administration works to broker a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.

“Well, I was being a little bit sarcastic when I said that,” Trump said in a clip released ahead of Sunday’s airing. “What I really mean is I’d like to get it settled, and I think I’ll be successful.” The remark marks a rare acknowledgment from Trump, known for bold and exaggerated claims, of tempering his rhetoric.

Throughout his campaign, Trump frequently vowed quick action. At a May 2023 CNN town hall, he declared, “They’re dying, Russians and Ukrainians. I want them to stop dying. And I’ll have that done in 24 hours.” He doubled down in a September debate with Kamala Harris, asserting he’d settle the war before taking office by bringing both sides together.

Now, with his special envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow this week pushing a U.S.-proposed ceasefire—already accepted by Ukraine—Trump faces the reality of delivering. Asked about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s potential refusal, Trump said, “Bad news for this world because so many people are dying. But I think he’s going to agree. I know him pretty well.” The war, now in its third year, remains a critical test for Trump’s diplomatic ambitions.