Zelensky Predicts Shorter War with Trump’s Return to Presidency

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed optimism that the war with Russia could end sooner under the leadership of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Speaking in an interview with Ukrainian outlet Suspilne, Zelensky stated, “It is certain that the war will end sooner with the policies of the team that will now lead the White House. This is their approach, their promise to their citizens.”

Zelensky revealed that he had a “constructive exchange” with Trump after his election victory, although he did not disclose whether specific demands were made about potential negotiations with Russia. He affirmed that nothing in the conversation contradicted Ukraine’s position.

Trump, who has pledged to end the war “in a day,” has not yet outlined his strategy but has repeatedly emphasized reducing U.S. military aid to Ukraine. Since the war began in February 2022, the U.S. has provided significant support, including a $61 billion military aid package approved earlier this year. However, domestic support for arming Ukraine has waned, especially among Republicans, a key constituency for Trump.

Challenges on the Battlefield

Despite receiving advanced Western weaponry, Ukraine’s efforts to reclaim territory have been slow. The much-anticipated 2023 counter-offensive failed to deliver significant territorial gains, leaving frontlines largely stagnant. Russian forces remain entrenched in the eastern and southeastern regions, with ongoing battles reported in areas like Kupyansk and Vuhledar.

In a bold move, Ukrainian forces launched an offensive into Russia’s Kursk region over the summer, marking the first occupation of Russian territory by Ukraine since World War II. While Zelensky described this as a strategy to divert Russian troops from Ukrainian frontlines, analysts believe the occupied territory could serve as leverage in future peace talks.

Diplomatic Endeavors Amid War Fatigue

Zelensky’s remarks come as fatigue over the prolonged conflict grows, both domestically and internationally. While reiterating his refusal to cede any Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, Zelensky has emphasized the importance of a diplomatic resolution to end the war next year.

However, the contours of such a resolution remain unclear. Russian forces have bolstered their ranks with conscripts, while Ukraine continues to rely on Western arms and a smaller, more specialized military.

Trump’s Controversial Role in the War

Trump’s stance on the conflict has drawn criticism from Democratic opponents, who accuse him of being overly accommodating to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump has maintained that his approach would prioritize ending the conflict quickly and efficiently, claiming to have a “very good relationship” with Zelensky despite their past tensions.

Zelensky, meanwhile, criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for a recent call with Putin, the first in nearly two years. Zelensky argued that such interactions could undermine efforts to isolate the Russian leader, even as Scholz reiterated calls for an end to the war.

With Trump’s upcoming presidency, the international community is closely watching how his policies might influence the trajectory of the war and the broader geopolitical landscape.