Ukrainian President Zelenskiy: Trump could play a key role in stopping Putin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Thursday that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump could play a crucial role in influencing the outcome of the ongoing 34-month conflict with Russia and in countering Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin. In an interview with Ukrainian television, Zelenskiy, who is currently dealing with Russian military advances in eastern Ukraine, mentioned that Trump had expressed his intention to be among the first visitors to Washington following the presidential inauguration this month.

Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of stabilizing the front line at the beginning of the new year. He noted that Putin is apprehensive about negotiations, as they would signify a defeat for Russia. “Trump can be a game-changer. This is our top priority,” Zelenskiy remarked during the televised interview. He acknowledged Trump’s potential, stating, “His attributes are indeed present. He can be a decisive factor in this conflict. He has the capability to halt Putin or, more accurately, assist us in doing so.”

Zelenskiy has articulated that achieving a fair peace for Ukraine necessitates robust security assurances from its allies, integration into the European Union, and an invitation to join NATO, a proposal that Moscow opposes. “Of course, any security guarantees lacking U.S. involvement are inherently weak for Ukraine,” he asserted. Zelenskiy expressed his desire to ensure that any U.S. settlement plan incorporates Ukraine’s perspectives.

He expressed hope that the Trump administration could quickly initiate communication with Russia. Putin has indicated that Moscow is willing to engage in discussions, but these must acknowledge Russia’s territorial gains and the annexation of four Ukrainian regions.

As Russian forces continue to capture village after village on the eastern front, marking their fastest advance since the invasion in February 2022, Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of stabilizing the front lines.

“They are exerting pressure on our troops, who are indeed fatigued. We will do everything possible to stabilize the front by January,” he stated.

Zelenskiy, who was elected in 2019, reiterated that new elections cannot take place while a wartime state of emergency is in effect, but he would consider running again when circumstances allow.

“I cannot predict how this war will conclude,” he remarked. “If I find that I can contribute more than I currently do, I might view the possibility of seeking another term more favorably. For now, that is not my primary focus.”