December 08, 2024
By Samuel Ogunsona
The United States of America president elect, Donald Trump, has called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, urging Russian leader Vladimir Putin to take action.
This development comes as Trump prepares to take office on January 20.
“I know Vladimir well. This is his time to act. China can help. The World is waiting!” Trump wrote on social media, emphasizing his desire to end the nearly three-year-old Ukraine war.
Trump’s proposal has been met with caution by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who stated that Ukraine needs a “just and robust peace” that Russia will not destroy. Zelenskyy also emphasized the importance of “effective peace guarantees” before any negotiations can begin.
In a televised interview, Trump also hinted at the possibility of reducing US military aid to Ukraine and even withdrawing the US from NATO.
This move has alarmed Ukraine, NATO allies, and many in the US national security community.
“If they’re paying their bills, and if I think they’re treating us fairly, the answer is absolutely I’d stay with NATO,” Trump said. However, he also indicated that he would consider pulling the US out of the alliance if his conditions are not met.
Trump’s former national security adviser, retired Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster, warned against the idea of a quick fix to ending Russia’s war with Ukraine. “What I’m worried about is this kind of flawed idea that Putin can be placated, right, that Putin will come to some kind of a deal,” McMaster said.
The development comes as the US has announced nearly $1 billion more in longer-term weapons support to Ukraine. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke to his Ukrainian counterpart, Rustem Umerov, on Sunday about the status of the war and US military backing.
As Trump prepares to take office, his stance on Ukraine and NATO has raised concerns among allies and experts.
The situation remains fluid, with all eyes on how Trump’s administration will navigate the complex geopolitical landscape.
