Meeting with Zelenskyy Sparks Renewed Push for Peace
On Sunday, Donald Trump called for an immediate ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris. Trump emphasized the need to end the war and urged negotiations to begin without delay. Posting on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Zelensky and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness.”
Trump has frequently vowed to end the conflict, though he has shared few details about his strategy. Recently, he appointed Keith Kellogg as a special envoy to address the war. Kellogg proposed a ceasefire coupled with a delay in Ukraine’s NATO membership to incentivize negotiations. However, Trump’s transition team has not clarified whether his approach aligns with Kellogg’s proposal.
Trump Highlights the Urgency for Action
In his Truth Social post, Trump expressed confidence in his ability to influence Russian President Vladimir Putin. “I know Vladimir well. This is his time to act. China can help. The world is waiting!” he declared. While Trump claimed to have spoken to Putin last month, Russia denied any such conversation occurred.
Trump also referenced Syria, suggesting that Russia’s focus on Ukraine had shifted its priorities away from protecting President Bashar al-Assad. Additionally, in a pre-recorded interview with Meet the Press, Trump hinted at reducing U.S. military aid to Ukraine under his leadership. He also emphasized the need for NATO allies to meet financial obligations for the U.S. to remain fully committed to the alliance.
Responses from Ukraine and Russia
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy acknowledged Trump’s call for a ceasefire but stressed the need for effective guarantees. “It cannot simply end with a piece of paper and a few signatures,” Zelenskyy posted on X (formerly Twitter). He warned that without strong safeguards, a ceasefire could quickly collapse, as Russia has violated agreements in the past.
On the other side, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia remains open to talks, provided they align with agreements made in Istanbul in 2022. These agreements, established early in the conflict, and the current battlefield dynamics heavily influence Russia’s position.
Kellogg’s Vision for Peace
Keith Kellogg, Trump’s special envoy, has proposed a framework for a negotiated peace. His plan involves maintaining military support for Ukraine to deter further Russian advances while postponing Ukraine’s NATO membership for up to 25 years. This delay, Kellogg argues, could push Russia toward serious negotiations.
Additionally, Kellogg stressed the importance of a “comprehensive and verifiable peace deal” that includes security guarantees for Ukraine. His proposal firmly opposes allowing Russia to retain any territory seized during the invasion. While Trump has not explicitly endorsed all elements of Kellogg’s plan, the appointment suggests alignment on key principles.
NATO Membership and the Path Forward
A source familiar with the discussions revealed that Ukraine would not be forced into an agreement it does not support. However, further military aid may hinge on Ukraine’s willingness to participate in negotiations. The source also noted that delaying NATO membership for Ukraine remains a potential component of a peace agreement, with timelines ranging from 10 to 25 years.
As Kellogg continues to refine his peace plan, it remains unclear how fully Trump will embrace its specifics. However, the shared focus on achieving a ceasefire and securing guarantees for Ukraine underscores the urgency of resolving the conflict.
