Ukrainian president’s team cultivates ties with Trump’s allies

Ukrainian officials have been analyzing the implications of a possible Donald Trump presidency, with concerns about his past deference to autocrats like Vladimir Putin and his transactional foreign policy approach.

A senior Ukrainian official, speaking anonymously, anticipates that the first part of Trump's potential term, particularly in 2025, could be challenging, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

The official warns of possible reductions in US aid and pressure on Ukraine to accept a peace deal favourable to Russia. Additionally, Trump might pursue a reset in relations with Putin, mirroring his previous approach to international diplomacy.

Ukrainian officials have been cautiously evaluating the potential impact of a Donald Trump presidency on their ongoing conflict with Russia. Initially worried that Trump's history of accommodating autocrats and his transactional foreign policy might jeopardize Ukraine's interests, some officials anticipate a shift in dynamics over time.

“But over time he will see that Putin cannot be trusted,” one senior official notes, adding that Trump might eventually realize Putin’s disregard for his agenda. This perspective has gained traction among Ukraine’s political elite, partly due to Zelenskyy’s tendency to find opportunities even in dire circumstances. Frustration with President Biden’s response to the war also plays a role, though Zelenskyy recently acknowledged Biden’s strong decisions in defending Ukraine following Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race.

Over the past two years, Ukrainian leaders have expressed frustration with what they perceive as a slow and cautious US response to the Russian invasion under President Biden, citing fears of escalating tensions with Russia as a major concern. Despite this, some in Kyiv are now contemplating the potential advantages of a Donald Trump presidency. They argue that if Trump were to assume power and ultimately decide to support Ukraine, US assistance might become more decisive and impactful.

As Ukraine continues to grapple with the Russian invasion, Kyiv's strategists are cautiously optimistic about potential shifts in US support should Donald Trump win the presidency. Despite initial frustration with the Biden administration’s perceived hesitancy, some Ukrainian officials believe that Trump could eventually become a staunch ally, especially if he reconsiders his initial positions on Ukraine.

Zelenskyy’s team is also leveraging support from European allies and the US military-industrial sector, which benefits from ongoing arms production for Ukraine. The senior Ukrainian official notes that these stakeholders can highlight the economic advantages of continued support to Trump, emphasizing job creation and economic benefits for key American states.

In this complex political landscape, Kyiv’s approach reflects both a pragmatic assessment of potential changes in US policy and a determined effort to secure unwavering support for Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.

As Donald Trump’s polling numbers rise, Ukraine is actively engaging with key figures in his orbit to secure continued US support. Zelenskyy and his team are working to build connections with Trump’s allies in Congress and the broader campaign network, aiming to balance their approach in a politically volatile environment.

In this uncertain landscape, Kyiv’s approach reflects a balancing act between fostering relationships with influential figures and maintaining a neutral stance to avoid jeopardizing future support.