A delegation from Ukraine has met with senior aides to President-elect Donald Trump to convey a message of readiness for peace negotiations with Russia.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha announced on December 4 that Andriy Yermak, Chief of Staff to President Volodymyr Zelensky, led a delegation to the United States to "establish communication channels with the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump."
The delegation held meetings with senior representatives of Trump’s inner advisory circle in Washington, according to sources familiar with the discussions cited by Reuters on December 5.
Participants in the discussions included Congressman Mike Waltz, who will serve as National Security Advisor, and Keith Kellogg, set to become Special Presidential Envoy for Russia and Ukraine. Earlier, Yermak had met Susie Wiles, Trump’s pick for White House Chief of Staff, in Florida. Sources described Yermak’s visit as a clear signal from Kyiv that Ukraine is prepared for peace negotiations to end the conflict with Russia. However, Ukraine also aimed to persuade Trump’s advisors that a sustainable peace, rather than a temporary ceasefire, is essential.
"Ambiguous and temporary peace serves neither Ukraine nor the United States," the Wall Street Journal quoted a source familiar with Kyiv's outreach efforts to Trump’s team.
Sybiha emphasized Ukraine's desire to establish a direct channel between the chiefs of staff of the two countries, highlighting its importance for U.S.-Ukraine relations once Trump takes office. He also reiterated Ukraine’s stance that NATO membership remains the only viable guarantee for the country's security, rejecting alternative proposals.
"Kyiv is, in fact, deeply frustrated with the outgoing administration of President Joe Biden," said Lucian Kim, an expert on Ukraine with the International Crisis Group (ICG). "The incoming Trump administration offers hope for a breakthrough, potentially altering the dynamics of the conflict. However, the nature of such changes remains uncertain."
Zelensky’s Signals for Diplomacy
President Zelensky has recently hinted that Ukraine might consider a ceasefire if NATO membership is secured, stepping back from the previous condition of reclaiming all Russian-occupied territories. He stated that Ukraine would continue asserting sovereignty over its entire territory but would prioritize diplomatic avenues over military solutions.
Meanwhile, Trump’s advisory team is reportedly exploring alternative approaches to facilitate peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. One proposal involves recognizing Russian control over approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory and freezing Kyiv’s NATO ambitions for several years.
Trump’s strategy on Ukraine is still in development, evidenced by internal disagreements among his advisors regarding future military aid to Kyiv. Some have suggested halting weapons supplies to pressure Ukraine into negotiations with Russia. However, Kellogg has publicly supported accelerating arms transfers to Ukraine during Biden's remaining time in office, arguing that doing so could strengthen Trump’s position in brokering peace talks.
Balancing Strategic Goals
"The Ukrainians are laying out their key demands ahead of negotiations," Kim noted. "They know NATO membership is not imminent, but they have no reason to concede anything before negotiations even begin."
Trump’s advisors face the challenge of balancing these demands with the broader goal of securing a swift resolution to the war. The outcome of these preliminary discussions could shape the trajectory of U.S.-Ukraine relations and the future of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
(According to Reuters, WSJ)
Hello Shuttle will strive to bring the latest updates. At the end of the day, whenever you need a reliable shuttle service, don’t hesitate to book with Hello Shuttle. We operate 24/7 whenever you need, serving major airports including LAX, Long Beach Airport, John Wayne Airport, Ontario Airport, Disneyland, and cruise terminals. We also provide Airport shuttle service in Westminster CA 92683, ensuring convenient and comfortable travel options. Book a ride at www.helloshuttle.com or call (949) 800-5678.8
