US President-elect Donald Trump has selected Mike Waltz as his National Security Adviser, who has outlined the administration’s approach to the Ukraine crisis. Waltz stated that the Trump team intends to initiate negotiations from the very first day of Trump’s presidency, which commences on January 20.

In an interview on Fox News, Waltz underscored the importance of facilitating discussions between Russia and Ukraine, aiming to unite both parties to negotiate a ceasefire or peace settlement. He remarked, “We need to determine who will be involved in these discussions, whether it will lead to an agreement or a truce, how to engage both sides in negotiations, and what the parameters of the deal will be.”

Waltz, a congressman from Florida, also pointed out the necessity of including America’s European allies in the dialogue. “All our allies and partners must share this responsibility,” he asserted, emphasizing that resolving the conflict will demand international collaboration.

Trump has consistently pledged to bring the conflict to a close and has expressed concerns regarding its intensifying nature, particularly with the increased deployment of advanced weaponry. Waltz noted that recent actions, such as President Joe Biden’s endorsement of missile strikes by Kiev deep into Russian territory, have escalated the fighting. He characterized the situation as an “absolute meat grinder” for those engaged in combat.

As a retired colonel and recognized authority on national security issues, Waltz expressed optimism that the Trump administration would act promptly to reestablish deterrence and conclude the conflict.

“We must bring this to a responsible conclusion. It is essential to restore deterrence and peace, preventing further escalation rather than merely responding to it,” he stated.

Despite Trump’s commitment to cease hostilities, doubts persist in both the United States and Russia. Senator Mike Rounds from South Dakota has raised concerns about the feasibility of direct talks between Moscow and Kiev.

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has categorically dismissed any proposals for territorial concessions to Russia, asserting that he will not formally relinquish any land.

Waltz’s remarks come at a time of escalating tensions, as Moscow has reacted to the recent US missile authorization for Ukraine by unveiling its own advanced missile, the Oreshnik.

The peace plan proposed by the Trump administration is expected to take precedence once he assumes office, with the anticipation that America’s NATO allies will play a significant role in the negotiations. Waltz emphasized that foreign nations will not be able to take advantage of the leadership transition from Biden to Trump, stating, “We are hand in glove,” and reaffirming a cohesive stance during this period.