Janice R. Andrews
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly dismissed the idea of recognizing Russian-occupied territories, even under international pressure, casting doubt on former U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that he could swiftly negotiate peace with Russia.
“No matter what anyone wants, even if all the allies in the world unite, we will never recognize the occupied territories as part of Russia. This is impossible,” Zelensky stated, reaffirming Ukraine’s steadfast position. “For us, they will always remain occupied territories until we liberate them.”
Trump’s Promise of Quick Resolution
Trump, who recently began his second term as U.S. president, has repeatedly claimed he could quickly end the war in Ukraine, though he has not provided detailed plans. On Tuesday, his Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the necessity for compromise from both sides to achieve peace.
“To end a conflict where neither side can achieve their maximum goals, each party will have to make concessions,” Rubio told CNN. “Ultimately, this decision lies with the Ukrainians and Russians.”
Russia’s Cautious Optimism
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov expressed a cautious yet hopeful outlook on potential negotiations with Trump’s administration. Speaking at the Institute for U.S. and Canadian Studies in Moscow, Ryabkov said, “Compared to the hopelessness under the previous White House leader [Joe Biden], there is now a small window of opportunity.”
However, Ryabkov stressed the importance of strategic planning: “We must understand with whom we will negotiate, how to build relations with Washington, and how to maximize opportunities while minimizing risks.”
Trump Warns of Sanctions as Putin Holds Firm
Trump has signaled a hardline stance, warning of potential new sanctions on Russia if President Vladimir Putin refuses to negotiate. While specifics were not disclosed, Russia already faces extensive Western sanctions due to its invasion of Ukraine.
In a direct message to Putin, Trump accused the Russian leader of damaging his country. “I think he is destroying Russia by not making a deal,” Trump said. “Most people thought the war would last a week, and now it’s been three years. Russia is in serious trouble.”
Putin, however, remained resolute, stating, “We are open to dialogue with the new U.S. administration on the Ukrainian conflict. The key is to address the root causes of the crisis.” Moscow anticipates a phone call between Trump and Putin in the coming days.
Zelensky Stands Strong Amid Ongoing Conflict
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine would only consider peace talks from a position of strength. He rejected any notion of treating Putin as an equal in negotiations, citing Russia’s repeated breaches of international law.
“Putin cannot be treated as legitimate in this situation. He has violated everything,” Zelensky said. “If Putin is approached as an equal, it would be a loss for Ukraine.”
Despite his strong rhetoric, Zelensky acknowledged the urgent need to end the conflict, which has claimed tens of thousands of Ukrainian lives. “The top priority is to halt the active phase of the war. This is the first step to ensuring security,” he explained.
The War’s Impact and Current Landscape
As the conflict nears its third year following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, the territorial and humanitarian toll continues to mount. Russian forces control large portions of Ukraine’s south and east, including areas annexed after the 2014 capture of Crimea and the Donbas region. In contrast, Ukrainian forces have made gains, occupying approximately 600 square kilometers of Russian territory following a counteroffensive in August 2024.
Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s ultimate objective of reclaiming all occupied lands, including Crimea, while safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
Obstacles to Peace
The possibility of a Trump-brokered peace deal faces significant challenges. Trump’s emphasis on mutual concessions conflicts with Zelensky’s firm stance against compromising Ukraine’s territorial integrity. At the same time, Putin’s insistence on addressing the “root causes of the crisis” suggests Russia seeks terms advantageous to its position.
As Trump’s administration develops its strategy, the international community remains watchful. With no immediate resolution in sight, the war continues to exact a heavy toll on both Ukraine and Russia, leaving the road to peace uncertain.
