Tensions between the United States and Ukraine have intensified since President Donald Trump assumed office. This shift in dynamics has led to a decline in Ukraine's relationship with the US, with potential repercussions for Ukraine's future. The re-establishment of US relations with Russia further complicates the situation, sidelining Ukraine from key diplomatic discussions. These developments have raised significant concerns for Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who fears the implications for his country's sovereignty and stability.
Ukraine's exclusion from preliminary talks between the US and Russia has heightened anxieties in Kyiv. President Zelenskyy expressed his concern that without robust international backing, specifically from the US, Ukraine's vision for a secure and prosperous future might be compromised. He conveyed this unease directly to President Trump, highlighting the potential risks of a future where Russia could once again pose a significant threat.
"Together with America and Europe, peace can be more secure; and that is our goal." – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
The disharmony between the US and Ukraine appears to be advantageous for Russia. With the US seemingly stepping back from its previous support stance, Russia is perceived to be exploiting the situation to strengthen its influence. Holger Schmieding, chief economist at Berenberg Bank, notes that the likelihood of US backing for a future peacekeeping mission in Ukraine is diminishing.
"There is no way that U.S. troops would be deployed to help keep the peace in Ukraine under any future deal," remarked Pete Hegseth, signaling the dwindling prospect of American military aid.
Ukraine's wartime circumstances have been a point of contention. Trump described President Zelenskyy as a "dictator without elections," a statement that has fueled anti-American sentiment within Ukraine. Kyiv has defended its position, stating that holding elections during martial law and ongoing conflict is impractical. Trump's remarks have not only strained bilateral relations but also intensified Transatlantic tensions.
The possibility of a "bad" peace deal looms over Ukraine, raising fears that such an agreement could force the country to concede territory to Russia. European officials remain divided on the matter of sending a peacekeeping force to Ukraine in any post-war scenario, reflecting the complexity of reaching a consensus on how best to support Ukraine.
President Zelenskyy remains steadfast in his vision for Ukraine's future. He emphasized the need for a united front with Western allies to ensure lasting peace and prevent further Russian aggression.
"This should be not only our goal, but a shared one with our partners. Especially as we approach the third anniversary of the beginning of this war – a war that we in Ukraine have wanted to end from the very first second. I am confident that we will end it, and with lasting peace. And in such a way that Russia will never be able to invade Ukraine again, that Ukrainians will return from Russian captivity, and that Ukraine will have a future," he asserted.
The visit of US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, to Kyiv aimed to address these rising concerns. However, doubts lingered regarding the meeting's effectiveness in fostering meaningful progress. The skepticism surrounding the visit underscores the challenges faced by diplomatic efforts amidst growing international discord.
Russia's stance on the issue reflects its strategic gains from the current US-Ukraine tensions. Dmitry Peskov commented on Ukraine's reliance on foreign military aid while criticizing its lack of accountability.
"Kyiv regime loves to live on donations [referring to military aid] and doesn't like to be held accountable," stated Dmitry Peskov.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted a shift in American attitudes towards negotiations.
"On the American side, there were entirely different people who were open to the negotiation process without any bias, without any prejudice to what was done in the past," he remarked.