Zelensky Expresses Optimism Over War Ending Sooner with Trump Presidency

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed hope that the ongoing war with Russia could conclude sooner under the leadership of Donald Trump, following his recent victory in the U.S. presidential election. Zelensky shared that he had a “constructive exchange” with Trump during their conversation, though he did not specify any conditions or demands made by the incoming U.S. president that would push Ukraine towards peace talks.

Trump’s consistent position has been to prioritize ending the war and reducing U.S. military expenditures related to Ukraine, which he describes as a significant drain on resources. This stance comes as the U.S. has provided substantial military support to Ukraine since the onset of Russia’s invasion. According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, between February 2022 and June 2024, the U.S. has supplied or committed $55.5 billion (£41.5 billion) in weapons and equipment to Ukraine. Earlier in the year, the U.S. House of Representatives approved an additional $61 billion (£49 billion) military aid package to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

Zelensky remarked in an interview with the Ukrainian news outlet Suspilne, “It is certain that the war will end sooner with the policies of the team that will now lead the White House. This is their approach, their promise to their citizens.” He emphasized the importance of Ukraine pursuing diplomatic channels, stating, “We must do everything so that this war ends next year, ends through diplomatic means.”

Despite his optimism, Zelensky acknowledged the challenges Ukraine faces on the battlefield, noting that Russian forces have been making strategic gains. The Ukrainian president’s remarks reflect a cautious hope that the incoming U.S. administration’s policies might accelerate peace efforts, potentially reshaping the future trajectory of the conflict.