Senior officials in Kyiv are convinced that despite Donald Trump’s public criticism of Ukraine assistance, President Zelenskyy could form a productive relationship if he returned to the White House. Meanwhile, another candidate Kamala Harri could continue the “too cautious decision-making” by the current administration.
According to the Washington Post, anonymous Ukrainian officials claim that the office of President Zelenskyy remains optimistic about Donald Trump’s potential victory in the upcoming US Presidential election, despite Trump’s public criticism of Ukraine assistance and his promotion of a quick end to war with Russia.
Trump was initially skeptical of Zelenskyy. He referred to him as “the greatest salesman in the world” during his presidential tenure. Their interactions were marked with tension, particularly during Trump’s initial impeachment, which took place in 2019. Trump has recently softened his stance and praised Zelenskyy for his resilience.
Many fear that a possible shift in US foreign policy under the Trump administration would lead to a reduction in military assistance. This could embolden Russia.
According to anonymous Ukrainian officials quoted by the Post however, Zelenskyy’s inner circle is confident in their leader’s ability to “sway Trump” if they formed a personal relationship.
While Zelenskyy’s administration maintains neutrality in regards to the US election, certain members believe that a change of approach from the current one could benefit Ukraine.
According to anonymous Ukrainian officials quoted by the Post there is frustration over what they perceive to be the Biden-Harris Administration’s “too conservative and too slow” approach towards military support. They point to Russia’s battlefield advances in the past year as proof that the current strategy is inadequate.
The optimism in Zelenskyy’s office is partly due to perceived similarities between the leaders. Former Ukrainian official told The Post that Zelenskyy “always saw similarity between himself and Trump”, noting their unconventional ways to power. Trump came from business, and Zelenskyy came from entertainment.
“Zelensky’s team prefers simple solutions.” “Trump is the guy who likes simple solutions,” said the official.
The Washington Post reports that some Ukrainian officials are concerned about Trump’s possible push for territorial concessions with Russia. Trump has repeatedly called on a rapid ending to the war, but hasn’t provided any details.
Ukrainian officials are also concerned about JD Vance’s proposal to freeze the current battle lines. This would leave significant Ukrainian territories under Russian control.
In September, Zelenskyy presented his victory plan to the leaders in New York. Former US President Donald Trump spoke about his relationship with both the Ukrainian President and Russian president Putin during a meeting. He expressed confidence that he would be able to quickly resolve the Russo Ukrainian war if reelected.
In an interview with The Washington Post Trump also praised Zelenskyy for his handling of the 2019 impeachment scandal, saying, “He could’ve grandstanding and played cute, he didn’t.” He was like a steel piece.”
Trump reiterated that he wanted to achieve a “fair” deal to end the conflict in Ukraine, and hinted that the US could provide stronger aid if Russia rejects his peace proposal.
According to Anton Grushetsky of the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (Kyiv International Institute of Sociology), Ukrainians are cautious about possible changes in US leadership. He notes “a certain fear of changing” while acknowledging frustration over the current administration’s approaches.
“You say strong things, but people are disappointed that you don’t follow them up with strong actions,” said he.
Related:
Zelenskyy reveals Trump’s talk on Ukraine’s NATO plea and cites Budapest Memorandum failures
* From “salesman”, to “pieces of steel”, Trump now praises Zelenskyy and says he likes them
Zelenskyy claims Trump promised to support Ukraine in a private meeting
* Trump emphasizes relationships between Putin and Zelenskyy at New York meeting with Ukrainian President
* Politico: Ukraine Bets on India to get peace deal with Putin
* The real problem with Zelenskyy’s victory plan
Read More @ euromaidanpress.com