Zelensky Hints at Accelerated End to Ukraine War...

Zelensky Hints at Accelerated End to Ukraine War Under Trump Presidency

Zim Now Writer

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested that Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine might conclude more swiftly under the leadership of Donald Trump, who recently secured a second term as U.S. president. Speaking during an interview with Ukraine’s public broadcaster Suspilne, Zelensky acknowledged the dire challenges on the battlefield, with Russian forces leveraging superior manpower and weaponry.

Zelensky expressed hope that the incoming U.S. administration could play a decisive role, stating, “The war will end faster with the policy of this team that will now lead the White House. This is their approach, their promise to their society, and it is also very important to them.” He underscored Ukraine’s commitment to pursuing diplomatic solutions to ensure the conflict ends in 2025.

Trump has repeatedly argued that the war would not have begun if he were president, even claiming he could resolve it within 24 hours, though he has not outlined how. Throughout his campaign, Trump and his vice president-elect, JD Vance, voiced skepticism about continued U.S. support for Ukraine, raising concerns about potential shifts in foreign policy.

Despite this, G7 leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine on Saturday. “We stand in solidarity contributing to [Ukraine’s] fight for sovereignty, freedom, independence, territorial integrity, and its reconstruction,” a statement read. They blamed Russia as “the sole obstacle to just and lasting peace.”

Russia continues to make incremental gains in Ukraine’s east and southeast, claiming control of two settlements in Donetsk and advancing toward key hubs such as Kurakhove. Although Ukraine has not confirmed these territorial losses, Zelensky admitted the situation is grim. “There is a slow but steady pressure and advance of the Russians,” he said.

Adding to Ukraine’s woes, Russia has launched a counteroffensive in Kursk, an area where Ukraine achieved its sole major military success this year. Zelensky noted delays in the delivery of critical weapons, with some promised for over a year still undelivered.

However, he emphasized the high human cost of Russia’s campaign, estimating Moscow is losing up to 2,000 soldiers daily. “These are terrible losses. They cannot keep advancing with such losses,” he stated.

Zelensky also criticised German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years. Zelensky condemned the call, accusing Scholz of undermining efforts to isolate Russia by opening a “Pandora’s box.”

As the war stretches into its third year, the prospect of a Trump administration injecting new dynamics into the conflict leaves questions about what lies ahead for Ukraine and its allies.