Trump’s new strategy for ending the Russia-Ukraine war

Thursday 13 February 2025 - 16:34

U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, engaging in consecutive phone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump emphasized that negotiations will start "immediately," marking a significant step toward fulfilling one of his key campaign promises.

Trump’s Discussions with Putin and Zelenskyy

During a 1.5-hour conversation with Putin, Trump described the exchange as "highly productive," noting that both leaders agreed on the urgent need to halt the ongoing war. He also revealed plans to meet Putin in Saudi Arabia in the near future.

The call with Zelenskyy was similarly positive, with the Ukrainian leader affirming his commitment to peace. However, Trump later stated that Ukraine should not expect to reclaim all of its lost territories or gain NATO membership—two major goals of Kyiv.

The U.S. Vision for Ending the War

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth outlined the administration’s stance, signaling a shift from the previous Biden administration’s unwavering military support for Ukraine. Trump’s team believes that pursuing Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders, including Crimea, is an "illusory goal" that would prolong the conflict. Instead, Trump suggests diplomatic solutions, including potential land swaps—though Russia has dismissed such proposals.

Security guarantees for Ukraine will also undergo changes. While U.S. troops will not be deployed, European and non-European forces may act as peacekeepers, though without NATO affiliation. Additionally, NATO allies are being urged to increase their defense spending from 2% to 5% of GDP to shoulder a greater financial burden.

What’s Next?

The upcoming Munich Security Conference will serve as a crucial forum for further discussions, with U.S. officials meeting their Ukrainian counterparts to refine the proposed peace plan. Trump’s administration appears determined to forge a diplomatic path forward, but skepticism remains over whether a ceasefire can hold under these conditions.