Zelensky Confident War with Russia Will End Under Trump Administration
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky believes that the war with Russia will end sooner if Donald Trump becomes president of the United States again. Zelensky mentioned that he had a “constructive exchange” with Trump after his victory in the November 5 elections.
Zelensky did not specify any demands Trump might have made about potential talks with Russia. However, he stated that he did not hear anything from Trump that contradicted Ukraine’s position. Trump has frequently claimed that his priority is to end the war and stop what he sees as a waste of U.S. resources on military aid to Ukraine.
Earlier this year, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $61 billion military aid package for Ukraine to help it fight the Russian invasion. The United States has been the largest supplier of weapons to Ukraine, committing or delivering $55.5 billion in arms and equipment from February 2022 to June 2024, according to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy.
In an interview with the Ukrainian media outlet Suspilne, Zelensky said, “The war will certainly end sooner with the policies of the team that will lead the White House now. This is their approach, their promise to their citizens.” He added that Ukraine must do everything possible to end the war next year through diplomatic means.
Zelensky acknowledged that the situation on the battlefield is challenging, with Russian forces advancing. Trump and Zelensky have had a complicated relationship. Trump faced impeachment in 2019 for allegedly pressuring Zelensky to investigate harmful information about President Joe Biden’s family. Despite past differences, Trump insists he has a good relationship with Zelensky.
How could Donald Trump’s potential return to the presidency affect U.S. military aid to Ukraine?
Interview with Dr. Elena Vasiliev, International Relations Specialist
News Directory 3 (ND3): Thank you for joining us, Dr. Vasiliev. Following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent comments suggesting that Donald Trump’s potential return to the presidency could expedite an end to the war with Russia, what are your thoughts on this statement?
Dr. Elena Vasiliev (EV): Thank you for having me. President Zelensky’s remarks are quite intriguing. The notion that the U.S. political landscape could influence the trajectory of the war is underscored by the significant role the United States plays in global diplomacy and military aid. Trump’s approach—centering around the idea of negotiating a resolution quickly—could be appealing to some, especially considering he has explicitly stated that he views U.S. aid to Ukraine as a financial burden.
ND3: Zelensky mentioned a “constructive exchange” after the November 5 elections. How might this dialogue impact U.S.-Ukraine relations moving forward?
EV: The term “constructive exchange” is significant. It indicates a willingness for dialogue which is essential for building rapport between nations. If Trump were to return to office, his relations with global leaders, including Zelensky, could potentially shift the American policy on Ukraine. Trump’s favoring bilateral negotiations could lead to new dynamics in how the U.S. engages with both Ukraine and Russia.
ND3: The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a $61 billion military aid package for Ukraine earlier this year. How might Trump’s reluctance toward such aid shape future support for Ukraine?
EV: Trump’s historical skepticism regarding continuous financial support for Ukraine poses a big question mark for its future assistance. If he starts questioning these aid packages as a “waste,” Ukraine might have to recalibrate its strategies, potentially seeking alternative partners or emphasizing diplomatic solutions that align with a more isolationist U.S. approach. This could lead to a reassessment of Ukraine’s defense strategies and alliances.
ND3: Zelensky did not disclose any specific demands from Trump during their conversation. Do you see this lack of detail as a red flag or a strategic move?
EV: It’s more likely a strategic move. By not disclosing specific demands, Zelensky may be aiming to maintain flexibility and avoid preemptively complicating future negotiations. Additionally, it allows him to position Ukraine as a united front, reinforcing that they prioritize their sovereignty and territorial integrity, regardless of the political transitions in the U.S.
ND3: In your view, how important is the political climate in the U.S. for the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine?
EV: The political climate in the U.S. is extremely important. American leadership carries substantial influence in international affairs, particularly in Europe. If the incoming administration prioritizes a hardline approach against Russia, as some Democratic leaders have advocated, it may prolong the conflict. Conversely, if a new Trump administration pushes for negotiations, there may be a shift that could lead to different outcomes.
ND3: As a conclusion, what do you anticipate for Ukraine’s future in light of these developments?
EV: The future remains uncertain. Ukraine continues to stand firmly against aggression, and its future may depend on the balance of U.S. domestic politics and foreign policy. Ukrainian resilience and the support of allied nations will remain critical. However, the political strategies of new leadership in the U.S. will undeniably shape the course of both the war and post-war recovery.
ND3: Dr. Vasiliev, thank you for your insights. We appreciate your time and expertise on this pressing issue.
EV: Thank you for having me. It’s an important discussion that will shape the future of not only Ukraine but international relations as a whole.
After their meeting in New York in September, Trump stated he learned a lot from Zelensky and could resolve the war quickly. During his campaign, Trump promised to end the conflict “in a day,” but he has not revealed how he plans to achieve this.
Democratic opponents of Trump accuse him of trying to appease Russian President Vladimir Putin, arguing his approach could endanger Ukraine and all of Europe.
Recently, Russia denied reports of a call between Putin and Trump following the election. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who spoke with Trump after the U.S. elections, noted that the incoming American leader has a “more nuanced” view of the war than commonly assumed.
Despite expressing support for ending the conflict, Zelensky criticized Scholz for recent talks with Putin, stating it undermines the strategy to isolate the Russian leader.