The world is holding its breath as Ukraine contemplates the future of its war with Russia under the looming shadow of Donald Trump's presidency. With recent comments from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, hope flickers on the horizon for potential peace negotiations when Trump takes office. At the 3rd International Conference on Food Security Grain from Ukraine, Zelenskyy expressed optimism about ending the conflict as soon as next year, contingent upon proposals from the upcoming U.S. administration. "I want to see the proposals of the new president of the United States of America. I think we will see these proposals already in January," he stated, emphasizing Ukraine's own plan but remaining open to U.S. input.
This anticipation is set against the backdrop of increasingly fraught geopolitics. Mark Rutte, NATO Secretary General, recently met with Trump to discuss global security issues and the alliance's approach to the war in Ukraine. The stakes are high, as many European leaders worry about Trump’s previously expressed skepticism toward American involvement, fearing his administration might scale back support for Ukraine. Rutte's relationship with Trump may bode well, as he previously commended Trump for prioritizing NATO defense spending and focusing on threats from China. This was not, of course, the only take on Trump's foreign policy; inquiries loom around his willingness to compromise on Ukraine's territorial integrity.
Meanwhile, some U.S. lawmakers are scrambling to protect Ukraine’s support as Trump prepares for his new role. A bipartisan group is pushing the Stand With Ukraine Act, which would compel the president to request sustained military aid for Ukraine against Russian aggression. While this legislation seeks to solidify existing support, it is uncertain how much traction it will get before Trump takes office. Experts worry time is running short; Congress only has three more weeks of working time before the presidency transitions. Conversely, Trump's rhetoric promotes the notion of concluding the war quickly, which raises eyebrows and concerns among those who view this as potentially compromising Ukraine’s gains and sovereignty.
The sentiment isn't limited to Washington. Across the Atlantic, British citizens are expressing apprehension over Trump's upcoming administration. A recent poll revealed strong public support for Ukraine, with many Brits fearing any peace deal brokered by Trump might be unfavorable to Kyiv. Even as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces pressure to maintain strong support for Ukraine, the public stands firm — about 69% believe it is imperative for the UK to back Zelenskyy’s fight against Putin.
The situation has drawn divergent opinions from various stakeholders within the U.S. Congress. With Trump's historic skepticism of Ukraine aid mirrored by some GOP members, many are uncertain about whether the Senate will remain the stronghold of bipartisan support it has been until now. Some lawmakers, like Senator Lindsey Graham, remain vocal advocates for Ukraine. Graham has urged Congress to bring the Stand With Ukraine Act to the floor, arguing for the necessity of unequivocal support for Ukraine's defense capabilities against any potential rollback from the presidential office.
With Trump’s victory, pro-Ukraine lawmakers are working diligently to pass legislation before the transition, showcasing the urgency to solidify America's role as Ukraine’s ally. But will their efforts be successful? That’s still unclear, as recent votes indicated some Republican lawmakers are hesitant about sending significant aid to Ukraine.
Global leaders are also watching the situation, including Zelenskyy who remarked on how substantive support from the U.S. can influence global alliances. He believes the U.S.’s strong position can gain allegiance from nations across the Global South — a coalition he believes could play a pivotal role should negotiations with Russia intensify.
Consequently, Ukraine's response to any proposed agreements hinges on the capability to uphold its territorial integrity, reliant upon U.S. support. There’s hope intertwined with skepticism; as the Ukrainian president puts his faith in the incoming administration. Speaking of the current circumstances, Zelenskyy noted, "There are appropriate steps for this... We understand Russia will not take all these steps. But there is a UN Charter, and all our steps based on the UN Charter will be supported by our partners." Amid these complicated narratives, it’s evident the war’s end is intricately tied to U.S. foreign policy and Trump’s administration.
