In a recent engagement, US president-elect Donald Trump indicated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is eager for a resolution to the ongoing conflict with Russia. Their discussions took place during a three-way meeting in Paris hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron. This meeting comes at a time of heightened concern in Kyiv regarding the changing dynamics as a new US administration prepares to take office.
Trump, known for his controversial approach to foreign policy, has previously expressed skepticism about the substantial military aid the US has provided to Ukraine and has even claimed he could resolve the conflict in a mere 24 hours. Following the Paris talks, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to share insights from his discussions with Zelensky, stating, “Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness.” He called for an immediate ceasefire and urged for negotiations to commence, stressing the high human cost of the conflict and the potential for escalation into something more catastrophic.
In a striking contrast to Trump’s comments, the outgoing Biden administration announced a new military assistance package for Ukraine shortly after the talks. Valued at $988 million, this package includes drones, ammunition for precision HIMARS rocket launchers, and various equipment for artillery systems, tanks, and armored vehicles, as detailed by the Pentagon.
Amid these developments, there are concerns within Ukraine that Trump may advocate for peace measures that could demand uncomfortable concessions from the Ukrainian government. President Zelensky emphasized the importance of a just resolution, asserting that any peace agreement should ensure that Russia and its leadership have no opportunity to reclaim control over Ukrainian territory. He stated, “We all want peace. But it is very important for us… that the peace is just for all of us and that Russia… has no possibility of ever returning.” He underscored the need for robust security guarantees for Ukraine, framing it as a non-negotiable aspect of any potential settlement.
Despite the underlying tensions, Zelensky expressed gratitude towards Trump for his steadfast support, describing the discussions as both positive and productive. This meeting marked Zelensky’s first direct engagement with Trump since his election, allowing both leaders an opportunity to discuss pressing international matters in person, particularly with the upcoming transition in US leadership.
Amidst the diplomatic engagements, Trump also participated in the ceremonial re-opening of Notre Dame cathedral, which had been devastated by fire in 2019. Macron greeted Trump with warmth, reflecting on their past collaborative efforts and emphasizing the importance of the US-French relationship. Trump reciprocated this sentiment, reaffirming his view of the constructive relationship he had fostered with the French president during his previous term.
In light of these developments, Macron called for a continuation of collaborative efforts towards peace and security across Europe. As the geopolitical landscape shifts with the entering Trump administration, European allies, particularly those engaged in the Middle East crisis, might find themselves navigating a different course of action, potentially aligning the US even closer to Israel. Trump’s Paris visit, marking his first international foray since his electoral victory, was closely observed by global leaders, keen to gauge the tone and trajectory of US foreign policy under his anticipated presidency.
