Kazakh leader shares views on ending hostilities in Ukraine in talk with Trump

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has expressed his view on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, stating that Russia remains "militarily invincible," while Ukraine's goal, with the support of its Western allies, is to "at least not lose."

In an interview with Ana Tili newspaper, Tokayev discussed a recent phone call with US President-elect Donald Trump, during which Trump sought his opinion on the prospects for ending the war, Caliber.Az reports.

"The situation is unique: Russia is militarily invincible, and Ukraine hopes, with the help of Western allies, to withstand the war, at least not to lose it," Tokayev remarked. "Therefore, I noted the exceptional complexity of the problem, the solution of which depends on the will and desire of the heads of the conflicting countries and, of course, Trump himself as the leader of the world power."

The Kazakh leader also emphasized Kazakhstan's consistent stance in favour of peaceful negotiations to resolve international conflicts, noting that the country is ready to assist in peace efforts but does not seek to act as a mediator. "Astana does not ask for mediators but is always ready to come to the rescue in resolving international problems," he said.

Tokayev also discussed Kazakhstan’s broader foreign policy, explaining that the country seeks to minimize the negative effects of global tensions on its trade and political relations.

"The fact is that tensions in the international arena affect Kazakhstan's trade and political relations with certain countries, so we seek to minimize the negative impact of external trends," he explained. "Kazakhstan aims to build pragmatic and mutually beneficial relations with all interested states."

Regarding his relations with Russia, Tokayev called Russian President Vladimir Putin "an experienced statesman" who understands the importance of Kazakhstan as the largest economy in Central Asia.

Tokayev further reflected on his meaningful conversation with US President-elect Donald Trump. "I can confidently say that he has a favourable attitude towards Kazakhstan as an important strategic partner of the United States," Tokayev said. "We agreed to maintain working contacts at a high political level. Trump and his team will be engaged in promoting new meanings and new approaches to international politics, which will inevitably affect the situation in the world."

Finally, Tokayev emphasized the long-standing cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United States. "I have been involved in the establishment of Kazakh-American relations since the mid-1990s," he said. "Over more than three decades of mutual cooperation, a common vision of priorities has emerged — trade, economic and investment cooperation, nuclear non-proliferation, and security. This agenda will form the basis of our joint work with the new White House administration."

By Tamilla Hasanova