Trump Suggests He Could End Ukraine Conflict Within “24 Hours” Through Negotiation
Washington, D.C., 30 November 2024
US President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering lifting sanctions on Russia as part of a potential peace agreement to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. The move aligns with Trump’s long-standing claims that he can resolve the conflict quickly, promising to negotiate a deal within “24 hours” of assuming office.
Sources close to Trump’s transition team suggest that the President-elect is exploring direct negotiations with both Kyiv and Moscow to broker a peace agreement. Lifting sanctions on Russia, which were imposed after its annexation of Crimea in 2014 and escalated during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, is said to be one of the key incentives Trump might offer to secure Russia’s cooperation.
Trump’s Negotiation Strategy
Throughout his campaign and after his election, Trump has emphasized his ability to strike deals that serve the interests of all parties involved. He has criticized the current US administration’s military support for Ukraine, arguing that prolonged involvement escalates tensions without resolving the conflict.
While the specifics of Trump’s proposed deal remain unclear, analysts speculate it could involve concessions to Russia, such as recognizing its control over certain territories, in exchange for a ceasefire or withdrawal from other occupied regions.
Mixed Reactions
The possibility of lifting sanctions has sparked debate both domestically and internationally. Critics warn that easing sanctions could embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin and undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. Supporters of Trump’s approach argue that prioritizing a swift resolution could save lives and stabilize the region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly rejected ceding territory in exchange for peace, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Meanwhile, Moscow has demanded that Ukraine abandon its aspirations to join Nato and withdraw troops from contested areas as conditions for peace.
International Implications
Trump’s plan has raised concerns among US allies, particularly in Europe, where leaders worry about the potential weakening of Western unity against Russian aggression. At the same time, some officials see the proposed negotiations as an opportunity to bring an end to the nearly three-year-long war, which has caused significant global economic and humanitarian repercussions.
As Trump prepares to take office, the world will be watching closely to see if his unconventional approach to diplomacy can deliver a resolution to one of the most pressing geopolitical conflicts of the decade.