In a recent televised interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed optimism about the potential role of President-elect Donald Trump in resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelenskyy highlighted Trump's decisive nature as a key asset, stating his belief that Trump possesses the qualities to help bring an end to the war, potentially by facilitating negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He suggested that Trump's involvement could be instrumental in achieving a peaceful resolution.
Then-former President Donald Trump (right) meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Trump Tower on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in New York City. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
Zelenskyy reportedly indicated that Trump assured him Ukraine would be a priority for presidential visits after his inauguration. A primary objective for Zelenskyy is halting Russian advancements early in the year. He also reportedly suggested Putin is hesitant about negotiations, viewing them as a potential admission of defeat.
Despite the conflict nearing its third anniversary, Russia has failed to achieve its initial war aims, or even Putin's revised objectives of securing the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. However, both Putin and Zelenskyy approach peace talks with caution. Zelenskyy has stated his willingness to negotiate, but only under conditions that include security guarantees for Ukraine, such as potential NATO membership.
Fellow soldiers carry the coffin of leading actor of the music and drama theatre Petro Velykiy, 48, who was killed in a battle with Russian troops in Russia's Kursk region, during a farewell ceremony in Chernyhiv, Ukraine, on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Dan Bashakov)
Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of U.S. involvement in any security guarantees for Ukraine, highlighting the nation's sovereignty and future. Putin, conversely, has stated he will not accept any ceasefire agreement that permits Kyiv to join NATO. He sees NATO membership for Ukraine as a direct threat to Russia, citing Article 5 of the alliance’s treaty, which stipulates a collective defense response to an attack on any member nation.
A serviceman of the 24th Mechanized Brigade fires a 2s5 "Hyacinth-s" self-propelled howitzer towards Russian positions near Chasiv Yar in Donetsk region, Ukraine, on Nov. 18, 2024. (Oleg Petrasiuk/Press Service of the 24th King Danylo Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces/Handout via REUTERS)
When questioned about the possibility of seeking re-election, Zelenskyy acknowledged that Ukraine's constitution prohibits elections during wartime. He indicated he might consider running again after the conflict concludes, depending on the circumstances and whether he believes he can continue to contribute effectively.
