Ukraine, Aug.18,2025: If this approach becomes the foundation for negotiations, it marks a sharp pivot for U.S. policy. Trump’s position dramatically aligns with Moscow’s long-standing demands
What Exactly Did Trump Say
“President Zelenskyy of Ukraine can end the war with Russia almost immediately, if he wants to… No getting back Obama given Crimea (12 years ago, without a shot being fired!), and NO GOING INTO NATO BY UKRAINE. Some things never change!!!”
These remarks came just before Monday’s crucial White House meeting—where Zelenskyy would be joined by European leaders—to discuss Ukraine’s future and security strategies.
Why These Concessions Matter
If this approach becomes the foundation for negotiations, it marks a sharp pivot for U.S. policy. Trump’s position dramatically aligns with Moscow’s long-standing demands and stands in contrast to Western calls for war prosecution, territorial integrity, and preconditions like ceasefire.
Critics see this as Trump passing the buck, pressuring Zelenskyy to concede sovereignty in exchange for fast-track peace that compromises Ukraine’s long-term security.
Zelenskyy’s Position and Europe’s United Front
Zelenskyy responded by insisting that peace “must be lasting” and recalling how concessions like Crimea only encouraged further aggression.
European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, Ursula von der Leyen, and Friedrich Merz, are arriving with Zelenskyy to Washington to reinforce Kyiv’s sovereignty and demand that any guarantees be enforceable—not coerced.
Alaska Summit and Putin’s Gains
The Alaska summit with Putin left Trump claiming “big progress,” yet resultantly amplified Putin’s position without securing any ceasefire. Analysts highlight this as a win for Russia—Trump effectively downgraded his ceasefire demand in favor of broader, Putin-aligned peace terms.
European observers warn of destabilizing consequences if negotiations proceed under pressure, with Ukraine conceding territory before securing lasting protection.
The Role of NATO-Style Guarantees
A possible compromise from Russia, via Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff, includes offering Ukraine “Article-5-like” security guarantees—without full NATO membership.
This could partially satisfy Ukraine’s demand for security while navigating Moscow’s restriction on NATO, yet details and enforcement mechanisms are still undefined.
What Lies Ahead
The stage is set for a high-stakes diplomatic battle in Washington. Key flashpoints will include:
- Whether Ukraine will be pressured into territorial concessions, especially regarding Crimea and Donbas.
- The substance and enforceability of proposed NATO-like security guarantees.
- The ability of European allies to bolster Kyiv’s negotiating position and preserve long-term sovereignty.
Should Trump’s conditions prevail, Ukraine may endure severe strategic setbacks before any peace deal is secured. This juncture may redefine the geopolitical balance in Europe—and set dangerous precedents for international conflict resolution.
