Trump Could Make Ukraine War End ‘Faster,’ Zelensky Declares
By Jake Beardslee ·
November 17, 2024
Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed a belief on Friday that the ongoing war with Russia would conclude "faster" under the leadership of incoming US President Donald Trump. In a radio interview with Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne, Zelensky acknowledged the challenging circumstances on the battlefield, citing Russia's advantages in personnel and weaponry. President Of Ukraine from Україна / Wikimedia
Zelensky predicted that the conflict would be resolved more quickly, saying the war 'will end faster with the policy of this team that will now lead the White House,' a reference to the incoming Trump administration.
Zelensky emphasized Ukraine's commitment to seeking a diplomatic resolution, stating, "We must do everything to ensure that the war ends next year through diplomatic means." The White House / Wikimedia
This comes as President-elect Trump, who secured a second term earlier this month, has repeatedly asserted that the conflict would not have commenced had he been in office. Trump has previously claimed he could resolve the war in a single day, though he has not elaborated on his methods. However, throughout his campaign, both Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, have expressed skepticism regarding continued US support for Kyiv. The war has been raging for over two and a half years, following Russia's large-scale invasion in February 2022. Damon Higgins/PALM BEACH DAILY NEWS/USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Despite the uncertainty surrounding future US policy, the G7 leaders issued a statement on Saturday reaffirming their "unwavering support" for Ukraine. "We stand in solidarity contributing to [Ukraine’s] fight for sovereignty, freedom, independence, territorial integrity and its reconstruction," the statement declared, adding that Russia was "the sole obstacle to just and lasting peace." PD-US / Wikimedia
The situation on the ground remains precarious for Ukraine. Russian forces are making gains in key areas along the eastern and southeastern frontlines, advancing towards strategic locations such as Kurakhove. Russia also claimed to have captured two additional settlements in the Donetsk region, a claim yet to be confirmed by Ukraine. Furthermore, Moscow is reportedly preparing a counteroffensive in the southern Russian region of Kursk, where Kyiv achieved its only significant military success this year. Ecrusized / Wikimedia
"There is a slow but steady pressure and advance of the Russians," Zelensky admitted, describing the situation in eastern Ukraine as "indeed difficult." He revealed that Ukraine has been awaiting the delivery of crucial weaponry for a year. However, Zelensky also pointed out the heavy toll Russia is paying for its advances, claiming they are losing up to 2,000 soldiers per day. "These are terrible losses," he said. "They cannot keep advancing with such losses." European Union, 2024 / Wikimedia
Adding to the complexities, a recent phone call between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Russian President Vladimir Putin – the first in two years – drew criticism from Zelensky. He accused Scholz of opening a "Pandora's box," suggesting the conversation undermined efforts to isolate Putin. European Union, 2024 / Wikimedia
