Media: Ukrainian leader may be forced to accept Trump's plan

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy may be forced to accept a plan for ending the conflict in Ukraine if it is proposed by newly elected US President Donald Trump.

Trump, who has previously pledged to end the conflict in Ukraine by the time of his inauguration, is now faced with a difficult decision. His advisors have suggested several plans, all of which differ significantly from the approach taken by the Biden administration, which allowed Kyiv to determine when to initiate peace talks, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

During his campaign, Trump repeatedly criticised Biden’s handling of the Ukraine crisis, arguing that the current strategy increases the risk of a third world war. He has claimed that he could resolve the conflict by bringing both sides to the negotiating table, although he has yet to present any concrete proposals for how this would be achieved. According to former aides, Trump prefers to make decisions independently, and his plan for Ukraine remains unclear.

Various factions within his circle are likely to vie for influence over foreign policy, much like during his first term. More conservative allies, such as Mike Pompeo, are inclined to support a peaceful resolution that would not result in a victory for Moscow. Meanwhile, other advisers, like Richard Grenell, may push for a quick end to the conflict, even if it requires Kyiv to make significant concessions. Among the proposals being discussed are freezing the frontlines, establishing a demilitarized zone, and requiring Ukraine to pledge not to join NATO for the next 20 years. In exchange, the US would continue providing Kyiv with weapons for deterrence.

One adviser noted that the US would not send troops to Ukraine to maintain peace—this responsibility would fall to European allies. Trump’s position also echoes the proposals of his elected vice president, J.D. Vance, who had previously suggested creating a demilitarised zone and solidifying Russia’s territorial gains.

However, some allies, such as Finland’s Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, warn that any negotiations must be conducted in agreement with Ukraine. Zelenskyy, who relies heavily on US military and financial support, may be forced into talks by Trump, but territorial concessions would likely provoke strong opposition in Ukraine, where such actions would be seen as capitulation. 

Trump himself has emphasised that he sees Ukraine as important to US interests but has frequently criticised Zelenskyy, calling him the "greatest salesman" for his ability to secure international aid. After the election, Zelenskyy congratulated Trump and reminded him of their meeting in New York, noting their agreement to maintain dialogue and strengthen cooperation.

By Naila Huseynova