Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed optimism that the war in Ukraine would come to an end sooner under a potential Donald Trump presidency. In an interview with Ukrainian media outlet Suspilne, Zelenskyy stated, “It is certain that the war will end sooner with the policies of the team that will now lead the White House.” He added that while the exact date was unclear, the shift in leadership could expedite the resolution of the conflict.
Zelenskyy emphasized that his recent conversation with Trump, which took place on November 5, was constructive. He noted, “I didn’t hear anything that goes against our position,” suggesting that Trump’s approach would align more closely with Ukraine’s interests.
Trump, who has been critical of the billions in aid sent to Ukraine, has promised to resolve the war “in 24 hours,” though he has not detailed how he would achieve this. Throughout his campaign, Trump laid blame on Zelenskyy for starting the war, and during his victory speech in Palm Beach, Florida, he reiterated his commitment to work toward a resolution: “We’re going to work very hard on Russia and Ukraine. It’s got to stop.”
However, many Ukrainians are wary of what a Trump administration might mean for the country, fearing that it could push Ukraine to cede territory to Russia in exchange for peace. This sentiment was echoed by Vice President-elect JD Vance, who suggested that negotiations might involve territorial compromises.
On the Russian side, Moscow has indicated a willingness to engage in peace talks if initiated by Trump. Gennady Gatilov, Russia’s ambassador to the UN in Geneva, said, “Trump promised to settle the Ukrainian crisis overnight. OK, let him try. But we are realistic people of course we understand that this will never happen.”