Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism that the ongoing war in Ukraine could come to an earlier conclusion with Donald Trump’s return to the White House. In a Friday interview with Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne, Zelensky acknowledged that the president-elect had listened to Ukraine’s position and appeared committed to ending the conflict swiftly.
“With the policies of the team that will now lead the White House, it’s clear the war will end sooner. This is their stance and their promise to the public, which is very important to them,” Zelensky said.
A Push for a Just Peace
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine remains steadfast in its demand for a “just peace,” insisting that any resolution must ensure justice for the lives lost and the sacrifices made. “For Ukraine, it’s crucial to achieve peace on fair terms,” he added, while reiterating that Kyiv will not accept territorial concessions.
The Ukrainian president noted that in his discussions with Trump, the former U.S. president demonstrated an understanding of Kyiv’s requests. “He listened to the fundamentals of what we are asking for. I didn’t hear anything against our position,” Zelensky remarked.
Zelensky also extended congratulations to Trump, emphasizing their mutual agreement to maintain open dialogue and strengthen cooperation between the two nations.
Trump’s Promises vs. Ukraine’s Concerns
Trump has publicly pledged to promote negotiations that would end the war quickly. However, Kyiv remains wary of the terms that might accompany such a peace. Ukrainian officials fear that Trump’s approach could pressure them to cede occupied territories to Russia in exchange for an end to hostilities, a move Ukraine has firmly rejected.
Trump’s calls for Russian President Vladimir Putin to avoid escalating the war have added a layer of complexity to his stance. While his rhetoric suggests an eagerness to broker peace, Ukraine is cautious about the potential implications of a deal that might compromise its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Road Ahead
As the world watches, the dynamics between Kyiv and the new U.S. administration will undoubtedly shape the next phase of the war. While Zelensky’s optimism reflects a hope for renewed support, the contours of Trump’s proposed peace remain uncertain, raising both anticipation and apprehension about what lies ahead for Ukraine.
