Zelensky believes war will end sooner with Trump as president
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed confidence that the war with Russia will conclude sooner under Donald Trump’s presidency. Following a phone conversation with Trump, Zelensky described the exchange as "constructive" and aligned with Ukraine's goals, though he refrained from disclosing specifics about any demands Trump might have raised regarding potential negotiations with Russia.
Zelensky said that Trump’s approach and campaign promise to prioritise ending the war reflect his team’s commitment. “It is certain that the war will end sooner with the policies of the team that will now lead the White House,” Zelensky told the Ukrainian media outlet Suspilne. He also reiterated Ukraine's goal of achieving peace through diplomacy, ideally within the coming year.
On the battlefield, however, the situation remains dire, with Russian forces reportedly gaining ground. Zelensky noted that protocol prevents him from meeting Trump in person until his January inauguration.
A problematic past
The history between Trump and Zelensky is complex. Trump was impeached in 2019 over allegations that he pressured Zelensky to investigate Joe Biden's family, but he has maintained that their relationship is strong. After meeting Zelensky in New York this past September, Trump claimed he “learned a lot” and expressed confidence in resolving the war “very quickly,” though he has yet to provide details on his plan. Critics, including Democratic leaders, argue that Trump's approach could favour Russia, undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty and potentially destabilising Europe.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who recently spoke with Trump, offered a different perspective, suggesting the president-elect’s stance on the war might be more balanced than critics assume. Scholz told the Süddeutsche Zeitung that his discussion with Trump was “perhaps surprisingly, a very detailed and good conversation.”
The US remains Ukraine’s largest arms supplier, having delivered or committed over 55 billion USD in military aid since the Russian invasion began. Earlier this year, Congress approved an additional 61 billion USD package, underscoring the scale of American support. Whether Trump will continue or limit this aid remains a question as he prepares to take office.
Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump © PHOTO CHARLY TRIBALLEAU, ATTILA KISBENEDEK / AFP
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