The mood in Kyiv has taken a significant hit following recent comments made by US political figure Pete Hegseth, which are perceived as a setback for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. James Waterhouse, a correspondent for the BBC, noted that Hegseth’s remarks likely pleased Moscow, highlighting a shift in US policy that appears less supportive of Ukraine compared to previous administrations.
Hegseth’s statements included a denial of NATO membership for Ukraine and suggested that the country cannot achieve victory against Russia. Furthermore, he expressed uncertainty regarding how a potential frozen conflict would be managed, which many interpret as a concession to Russia’s long-standing aggression toward Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been vocal in asserting that any discussions regarding Ukraine’s future must include Ukrainian voices. However, a recent phone call between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin occurred without Zelensky’s participation, raising concerns about the legitimacy of such dialogues.
In a separate engagement, Zelensky described his discussions with Trump as productive, emphasizing the need for ongoing collaboration with the United States to counter Russian advances. He stated, "No one wants peace more than Ukraine," and reiterated the importance of American involvement in any security arrangements for Ukraine, arguing that guarantees without US support are insufficient.
The call between Trump and Zelensky lasted about an hour, according to reports. Zelensky also proposed a potential exchange of territories held by Ukraine and Russia as part of a peace agreement, a suggestion that was quickly dismissed by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, who declared such an exchange "impossible."
As the conflict continues, Zelensky faces challenges regarding his leadership and the possibility of holding presidential elections. With martial law in effect and the ongoing invasion, he has indicated that conducting a fair election is currently unfeasible. Trump hinted at the upcoming expiration of Zelensky’s term in May 2024, which has led to speculation about the future political landscape in Ukraine.
The situation remains tense, with Zelensky emphasizing that any security guarantees must involve the United States to be credible, while Putin has consistently questioned Zelensky’s authority to engage in negotiations with Russia. As Ukraine navigates these turbulent waters, the international community watches closely, aware that the outcomes of these discussions could significantly impact the region’s stability.