Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy believes that US President-elect Donald Trump’s strong and unpredictable nature could impact the resolution of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Zelenskyy stated that while it may not be possible to end the almost three-year war in Ukraine in one day, Trump’s strong position could lead to a quick end to the fighting on the battlefield. Zelenskyy is hopeful that Trump’s unpredictability will be directed towards Russia, which has been a major aggressor in the conflict. Trump has not fully outlined his policy towards Ukraine, raising concerns over whether the US will continue to be Ukraine’s biggest military backer.
With the war entering its fourth year and Trump preparing to take office, the question of how Europe’s biggest conflict since World War II might end has become more urgent. Russia currently controls about one-fifth of Ukraine, making it crucial for Ukraine to receive continued support from Western partners. Zelenskyy met with Trump in New York before the US presidential election, indicating his eagerness to ensure ongoing US support. The possibility of Western peacekeepers being deployed in Ukraine to monitor a ceasefire agreement has been well-received by both Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Zelenskyy is determined for Ukraine to become a member of NATO, despite the alliance’s stance that membership will not occur until the war ends. The incursion by Ukrainian forces into Russia’s Kursk border region last August has been seen as a significant move in future peace negotiations. Although the incursion did not drastically alter the course of the war, Zelenskyy believes it has made an impression on countries around the world and has damaged Russia’s military reputation. While Ukraine has suffered losses in terms of captured territory, Zelenskyy sees this incursion as a strategic advantage moving forward.
The trajectory of the war in Ukraine is not favorable for the country, as it continues to face challenges on the front line and relies heavily on support from Western allies. Zelenskyy’s meetings with Trump and Macron have highlighted the importance of international cooperation in resolving the conflict. The Ukrainian leader remains optimistic about the potential for a quick resolution to the fighting, especially with strong leadership from Trump. Zelenskyy’s commitment to securing continued support from the US and other Western partners underscores his determination to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
As Trump prepares to assume office on January 20th, the focus on Ukraine’s future and the role of the US in the conflict has intensified. Zelenskyy’s efforts to engage with world leaders and advocate for Ukraine’s interests on the global stage reflect a proactive approach to resolving the conflict. With ongoing discussions about the deployment of peacekeepers and potential pathways to peace, the hope for a swift end to the war in Ukraine remains a top priority for Zelenskyy. The coming months will be critical in determining the direction of the conflict and the level of support Ukraine receives from its allies in the West.
