Zelensky Says Ukraine War Will End Sooner: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed optimism that the war with Russia will conclude faster under Donald Trump’s leadership as the newly elected president of the United States. Speaking to Ukrainian media outlet Suspilne, Zelensky revealed details of a “constructive exchange” he had with Trump following his victory in the presidential election.
Trump’s Promises to End the War
Zelensky stated that Trump’s policies and commitments to U.S. citizens suggest a resolution to the conflict may come sooner. “It is certain that the war will end sooner with the policies of the team that will now lead the White House,” he said. He did not disclose any specific demands made by Trump during their conversation but emphasized that nothing was contrary to Ukraine’s position.
Trump has consistently vowed to prioritize ending the war, criticizing the ongoing drain on U.S. resources from military aid to Ukraine. In September, Trump claimed he could resolve the conflict “very quickly” during a meeting with Zelensky in New York.
U.S. Support and Battlefield Challenges
The U.S. remains Ukraine’s largest military aid supplier. Between February 2022 and June 2024, over $55.5 billion worth of weapons and equipment were delivered or committed to Ukraine, according to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy. Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives approved an additional $61 billion aid package.
On the battlefield, Zelensky acknowledged that Ukrainian forces face mounting difficulties as Russian troops make advances. However, he underscored the urgency of ending the conflict diplomatically within the next year.
A Complicated Relationship
The relationship between Zelensky and Trump has not always been smooth. Trump’s 2019 impeachment centered on allegations that he pressured Zelensky to investigate the Biden family. Despite this history, Trump maintains that he had a “very good relationship” with the Ukrainian president.
Trump’s approach to the war has drawn criticism from Democratic opponents, who accuse him of being overly sympathetic to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Some argue his strategy could lead to concessions that endanger Ukraine and Europe.
Global Reactions to Trump’s Stance
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who spoke with Trump after his election win, offered a different perspective, describing their conversation as “very detailed and good.” Scholz remarked that Trump’s position on the war was “more nuanced” than widely perceived.
Zelensky, unable to meet Trump in person until his inauguration in January due to U.S. legislation, remains focused on Ukraine’s goal of securing peace. Meanwhile, Trump has yet to outline specific plans for ending the war.
