The Potential Impact of Trump’s Influence on the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Trump is ready to reshape the geopolitical landscape, from including China in peace talks to arming Ukraine for a prolonged cease-fire negotiation.
President-elect Donald Trump is positioning himself to make sweeping efforts to end the ongoing Russian war in Ukraine.
His success in this endeavor and the implications for Ukraine and Russia’s futures are still uncertain.
Arik Burakovsky, associate director of the Russia and Eurasia Program at Tufts University, sees potential for renewed engagement with Russia if Trump pursues a cease-fire agreement.
Diplomatic opportunities could arise for a second Trump administration.
“If both sides come to the table, there is a chance to discuss a cease-fire and security guarantees that could benefit Ukraine’s stability,” Burakovsky told The Epoch Times.
He also expressed concerns that if negotiations falter due to lack of progress, Trump’s focus might shift.
Moscow and Kyiv have been hesitant to show willingness to compromise on their demands, posing challenges for Trump in facilitating a negotiated settlement.
When Russia began its invasion in 2022, Ukraine vowed to reclaim its territories, including Crimea, lost in 2014.
Both sides have hinted at a hidden willingness to engage in diplomacy, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposing a cease-fire with Russian protection for unoccupied territories.
Trump’s outreach to China suggests broader geopolitical goals to involve them in negotiations and align Russian interests.
Sam Kessler, a geopolitical analyst, believes this approach could ease tensions and reshape global relations.
Trump’s selection of Keith Kellogg as a special envoy reflects hopes to end the war and boost international markets.
Ensuring a lasting cease-fire deal requires preventing Russia from exploiting the situation to rebuild its forces.
Options like establishing a training command for Ukrainian soldiers or even considering nuclear deterrence for Ukraine are being explored.
While Biden opposes arming Ukraine with nuclear weapons, Trump may prioritize conventional weapons if Ukraine engages in peace talks.
