This is a major development in US-Ukraine relations, with Zelensky appearing to soften his stance in response to Trump’s pressure. The shift comes after an intense Oval Office meeting and the US decision to pause military aid to Ukraine.
Zelensky’s call for a “truce in the sky and sea” as a first step toward peace suggests he is attempting to open diplomatic channels while still holding firm on Ukraine’s security needs. However, the lack of an outright apology to Trump—despite pressure from the US president’s camp—shows he is trying to balance maintaining support from Western allies without appearing weak.
Meanwhile, European leaders like Starmer and Macron have backed Zelensky’s approach, but NATO’s secretary general has made it clear that Ukraine must find a way to work with Trump. This highlights growing concern among Ukraine’s allies about its increasingly fragile relationship with the US. The Kremlin’s reaction—welcoming the US pause in aid as a step toward peace—signals that Moscow sees Trump’s stance as beneficial to Russian interests. Trump’s own Truth Social post accusing Zelensky of “not wanting peace” suggests he remains skeptical of Ukraine’s intentions and is using the aid pause as leverage.
This situation could mark a turning point in the war, depending on how Trump handles the paused aid, the potential minerals deal, and whether Ukraine makes further diplomatic concessions. The upcoming Congress address by Trump will likely provide more clarity on his long-term plans.
What do you make of Zelensky’s shift in tone—genuine diplomacy or a strategic move to keep US support?
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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