In a bold assertion of diplomacy, Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump announced his intent to mediate an end to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This declaration came as he and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prepared for an important conversation in New York.
As reporters gathered at Trump Tower, Zelensky expressed his eagerness to present his “victory plan” for Ukraine directly to Trump. This strategic proposal aims to outline Ukraine’s vision for triumph amidst adversity.
Trump complimented Zelensky for his leadership but reiterated his connections with Russian President Vladimir Putin, remarking, “I maintain a solid rapport with President Zelensky, and as many know, I also share a good relationship with President Putin.”
Initially, US media outlets suggested that the meeting in Trump Tower might be cancelled. They reported this development followed Zelensky’s remarks in an interview with The New Yorker, where he criticized Trump, suggesting that the former president “doesn’t quite grasp how to halt the war.” Such comments apparently ruffled Trump’s feathers.
This political discourse coincides with Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, who lambasted Trump’s approach concerning Ukraine as a misguided “surrender” policy.
While meeting with Harris and President Joe Biden, Zelensky submitted his comprehensive victory strategy. During this White House gathering, Biden announced a significant military assistance package of nearly $8 billion to support Ukraine during these tumultuous times.
Alongside Zelensky, Harris, while refraining from mentioning Trump explicitly, voiced concern about those individuals in the United States advocating for Ukraine to concede substantial portions of its territory. She said, “The proposals mirror those of President Putin. It’s important to emphasize that they are not advocating for peace; rather, they are pushing for capitulation.”
In another session within the Oval Office, President Biden promised, “Russia will not triumph” in the conflict that erupted in February 2022. He reiterated his commitment, stating that “Ukraine will emerge victorious, and we will continue to provide unwavering support.”
Expressing gratitude, Zelensky responded, stating, “We truly appreciate that Ukraine and the United States have consistently stood united throughout these challenging times.”
Despite this support, Zelensky finds himself navigating complex tensions as the US approaches its presidential election on November 5, a pivotal moment that could threaten the robust backing he has enjoyed from the United States over the past two and a half years.
As the backdrop shifts, Trump, a long-time critic of the substantial financial aid flowing to Ukraine, accused Zelensky of avoiding negotiations with Russia on the eve of their meeting. This accusation highlighted Trump’s longstanding assertion that he could broker a peace deal—an assertion that Kyiv fears could entail territorial concessions.
“I believe I’ll be able to negotiate an agreement between President Putin and President Zelensky, and I believe it would happen swiftly,” he claimed, underscoring his willingness to play mediator.
However, Trump expressed frustration over Zelensky’s comments in that New Yorker interview, where the Ukrainian leader had suggested that Trump “doesn’t really know how to stop the war.”
In an earlier development, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer engaged in talks with Trump during a visit to New York. Starmer made a point to visit Trump Tower to discuss international affairs in person. He articulated, “I am a firm believer in the importance of personal relationships in global diplomacy.”
This particular meeting bore potential for diplomatic awkwardness, attributable not only to Trump’s larger-than-life persona but also due to Starmer’s inability to secure a comparable meeting with Vice President Harris.
Prior to his appointment with Trump, Starmer remarked, “I’ve consistently stated my desire to engage with both candidates. While I’m pleased to meet Trump today, I still seek a conversation with Harris.”
At a press briefing preceding their encounter, Trump described Starmer as “very nice,” showcasing a moment of levity amid the heavy political exchanges.
Edited by: Ali Musa
Axadle international–Monitoring
