According to The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), Ukrainian officials are engaging with the incoming U.S. administration to address key differences regarding the resolution of the ongoing conflict with Russia. These efforts come as Donald Trump prepares to assume office as President of the United States.
The report highlights that Ukraine aims to send a clear message of its readiness for peace. However, the emphasis is on achieving a sustainable peace rather than a temporary resolution.
Andriy Yermak, an aide to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, has reportedly visited Washington to establish communication channels with Trump’s team. Meetings involved U.S. Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, Mike Waltz—expected to serve as Trump’s National Security Adviser—and Keith Kellogg, anticipated to be appointed as Special Envoy to Ukraine.
Sources reveal that Ukraine seeks to underscore its willingness to negotiate, provided the outcome ensures long-term stability. One source stated, “An unstable and temporary peace would not serve the interests of either the U.S. or Ukraine.”
President Zelensky, in an interview with Sky News, expressed openness to a ceasefire agreement under specific conditions. He suggested that peace could be viable if Kyiv-controlled areas were placed “under NATO protection,” adding that territories currently under Russian control might be recoverable through diplomatic means.
On December 3, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte urged Ukraine to delay peace negotiations until it secures sufficient military support from Western allies. Rutte emphasized that the decision on the timing of talks should remain solely with Kyiv.
