Trump's controversial Ukraine plan: Freeze conflict, delay NATO
US President-Elect Donald Trump may propose that Ukraine freeze the armed conflict with Russia without reclaiming lost territories and forgo NATO membership for at least 20 years, reports The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), citing individuals familiar with the matter.
10:34 AM EST, November 7, 2024
According to the sources, Trump's advisors are currently discussing such a scenario for ending the war. It is anticipated that after freezing hostilities along the entire front line, a demilitarized zone will be established. However, it is not yet clear who would ensure the security of this zone.
However, one of the WSJ sources ruled out the involvement of American troops or UN forces in ensuring security.
"Let the Poles, Germans, English, and French handle it"
In exchange for agreeing to delay NATO entry for 20 years, Trump promises continued arms supplies to Ukraine.
One of the Trump's team said that they can train military personnel and provide other support, but European countries must take the lead. They are not sending American men and women to ensure peace in Ukraine and theyare not paying for it. The person added to let the Poles, Germans, English, and French handle it.
The plan is not yet approved
Meanwhile, WSJ's sources emphasized that Trump has not yet approved a specific plan to end the conflict in Ukraine. A former national security advisor to the Republican noted that Trump will make the decision personally and at the last moment, so no one can predict in advance what the president will decide.
WSJ also notes that the plan for ending the war, as described by the sources, resembles a conflict resolution proposal made in September by Vice President-Elect J.D. Vance.
According to him, Trump will propose an agreement where Russia retains control over Ukrainian territories, a demilitarized zone is formed along the current front line, and Ukrainian troops are strengthened in case of a renewed conflict with Russia. Moscow, meanwhile, would receive guarantees that Ukraine will not join any military alliances, including NATO.
WSJ predicts that various factions with differing opinions will compete for influence over Trump's foreign policy during his second term. For example, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who is vying for the position of Secretary of Defense, could advocate for a solution that does not resemble a Russian victory.
On the other hand, Richard Grenell, considered the main candidate for Secretary of State or National Security Advisor, may agree to significant territorial concessions by Ukraine to quickly end the war.
Zelensky reacts to US election results
"I recall our great meeting with President Trump back in September, when we discussed in detail the Ukraine-U.S. strategic partnership, the Victory Plan, and ways to put an end to Russian aggression against Ukraine. We look forward to an era of a strong United States of America under President Trump’s decisive leadership," wrote Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who congratulated Trump on his election victory.
