With Donald Trump poised to take office, Kyiv is intensifying its efforts to secure a strong position for potential negotiations that could end Russia’s war in Ukraine. A top Ukrainian official emphasizes that the coming winter months will be crucial, with a focus on bolstering military strength and securing more weapons. Trump has expressed intentions to end the war quickly, though he has not detailed his plan.
Ukrainian officials are closely watching Trump’s key security and defense appointments, especially given concerns he may reduce U.S. support. Some officials fear a diminished prospect for NATO membership and potential aid cutbacks, hoping the Biden administration will expedite support while it can.
On the battlefield, Ukraine is grappling with manpower shortages as Russian forces continue to advance, backed by an estimated 11,000 North Korean troops. Zelenskiy remains cautious of any ceasefire without substantial security assurances, warning of the risk of a larger future offensive if Russia is not constrained.
Amid a bleak public mood, some Ukrainians are willing to take a chance on Trump, frustrated by what they see as the Biden administration's insufficient support. Meanwhile, President Putin is open to dialogue with Trump, though Moscow’s core demands remain unchanged, seeking an end to Ukraine’s NATO ambitions and a territorial pullback.
