Former US President Donald Trump is once again using his bully tactics, this time targeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In a recent speech, Trump indicated that he wanted to make a deal to resolve the Ukraine crisis on his own terms and that Zelensky would have to “act normally.”
The comments have sparked a new debate in global politics. Trump's supporters believe his tough leadership will help end the war, but critics say it could strengthen Russian President Vladimir Putin and threaten Ukraine's sovereignty.
Trump's speech and strategy
Trump has always claimed that if he wins the 2024 US presidential election, he will be able to end the Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours. However, he has never given a clear explanation as to how he would do so.
"Zelensky needs to be a little more flexible, calm down and accept the deal I've made," he said in a recent speech.
According to experts, Trump is essentially trying to pressure Zelensky into peace talks. His view is that the Biden administration has unnecessarily emboldened Ukraine and that prolonging the war is not in the best interests of the United States.
Trump has already called providing military aid to Ukraine a waste and said the United States should not be spending so much on Ukraine.
Possible terms of Trump's deal
International analysts differ on what kind of plan might lie behind Trump's "take my deal" rhetoric. Some possible directions include:
- Cession of some Ukrainian territories to Russia:
Trump has repeatedly said that the main issue in the Russia-Ukraine war is control of territory. Many experts believe that he could pressure Ukraine to give up some parts, especially regions like Donbass and Crimea, which Russia has already occupied. - Reducing US military aid:
If Trump comes to power, he could significantly reduce US military aid to Ukraine. This could have a major impact on Ukraine's conduct of the war and force the country to negotiate with Putin. - NATO's position changes:
Trump has said in the past that the United States should not do what European countries are doing for Ukraine. He has repeatedly expressed his displeasure with NATO and has threatened European countries to reduce NATO spending during his presidency.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently opposed Trump's approach, saying the full support of the United States and its Western allies is essential in the fight against Russia.
Zelensky has repeatedly said that the basis for negotiations with Russia must be Respect for international law and the sovereignty of Ukraine. He made it clear that Ukraine would never give up even an inch of its territory to Russia.
He said, "We will continue to fight to protect our land. The blood of our people will not be allowed to go in vain."
Zelensky's government believes that if Trump becomes US president and decides to cut aid to Ukraine, Ukraine will have to adopt alternative strategies. This could include becoming more dependent on European countries and further increasing its own military capabilities.
Trump's statement could have implications not only for Ukraine but for the security of all of Europe. His position is in stark contrast to President Joe Biden's current policies. The Biden administration has provided Ukraine with extensive military aid, which Trump says is "Unnecessary and expensive."
- Concerns of NATO and European leaders:
European leaders are concerned about Trump's stance, as he could pressure NATO, if returned to power, to take on more responsibility for Ukraine. - Putin's possible response:
Trump's stance could be positive for Russian President Vladimir Putin. If Trump reduces aid to Ukraine, Putin could become more aggressive and try to seize more territory in Ukraine. - US domestic reaction:
The issue has also created a major debate in US politics. While many members of the Republican Party support Trump's position, some Republicans and most Democrats believe that helping Ukraine is important to US strategic interests.
Trump's 'bullying' tactics are not easily acceptable to a leader like Zelensky. Ukraine is still fighting to protect its independence and sovereignty, and there is extensive discussion in diplomatic circles about what Trump's alleged 'deal' might be.
If Trump wins the 2024 US presidential election, the future of the Ukraine crisis could take an uncertain turn. If Trump's policies force Ukraine to compromise with Russia, it could have long-term implications for European security and global politics.
Currently, the situation on the battlefield in Ukraine is changing, and the role of Western allies is important. But the biggest question now is how much this geopolitical equation will change if Trump becomes president.
