Former United States President Donald Trump has reportedly aligned with Russian President Vladimir Putin in opposing a proposed temporary ceasefire in Ukraine. The assertion was made by Yuri Ushakov, an adviser to Putin, following a telephone conversation between Trump and Putin before a scheduled meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on December 17, 2023.
During the call, which lasted over an hour, Ushakov characterized the dialogue as “friendly, benevolent, and businesslike.” He stated that both leaders are of the view that a ceasefire proposed by the European Union and Ukraine would only prolong the ongoing conflict.
At Mar-a-Lago, Trump welcomed Zelensky, describing him as “brave” and acknowledging the challenges he faces. Trump expressed his belief that both Zelensky and Putin genuinely desire peace, saying, “The two leaders want it to end.” Zelensky indicated he would discuss potential territorial concessions, which remain a contentious issue for Ukraine.
The backdrop of these discussions is marked by escalating violence in Ukraine. Reports indicate that a recent attack by Russian forces resulted in casualties in the eastern city of Sloviansk, where three guided aerial bombs struck private homes, injuring three individuals and resulting in one fatality. This assault followed a series of missile attacks on Kyiv, which occurred just a day prior to the Trump-Zelensky meeting.
Trump conveyed optimism regarding Putin’s commitment to ending the conflict. “I believe Ukraine has made some very strong attacks also,” he noted, hinting at the complexities of the situation. Trump suggested that he would reach out to Putin again after his discussions with Zelensky and engage with European leaders whom he praised for their cooperation.
The meeting between Trump and Zelensky is seen as a pivotal moment in ongoing negotiations. Zelensky revealed that a draft peace proposal, which both sides have been working on, is approximately “90% ready.” This proposal includes security guarantees for Ukraine similar to those provided to NATO members, and Zelensky indicated flexibility regarding Ukraine’s pursuit of NATO membership in exchange for robust security assurances.
Looking ahead, Zelensky acknowledged the intensity of upcoming negotiations, highlighting ongoing discussions with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. He noted, “There is still work to be done on sensitive issues,” suggesting that the path to peace remains fraught with challenges.
Tensions continue to rise as Putin has publicly asserted that he seeks recognition of all territories captured by Russian forces, including the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014. His demands also encompass Ukraine’s withdrawal from key areas in eastern Ukraine and the abandonment of its NATO aspirations. Kyiv has firmly rejected these conditions.
Ushakov cautioned that a decisive political response is necessary from Kyiv regarding the disputed Donbas region to facilitate a complete cessation of hostilities. He emphasized that both sides must navigate complex negotiations to achieve lasting peace.
As this situation evolves, the international community watches closely, aware that the stakes remain high for both Ukraine and Russia. The implications of Trump’s involvement and his shifting stance could reshape diplomatic efforts in the region, underscoring the delicate balance of power and the urgent need for resolution.
