«Donald Trump is a politician who aims to be number one. The alleged projects circulating at the moment are all based on granting something to Russia, but they are suggestions from Vladimir Putin. If Trump went after him, he would become number two. And I don’t think he can accept it.” Speaking to Repubblica is Mykhailo Podolyak, advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who underlines – regarding the acceptance of a ceasefire in exchange for the concession of the occupied territories to Russia and immediate entry into NATO – that «a great deal is being made talk about this hypothesis because it is assumed that Ukraine must necessarily concede something. Putin’s goals are the destruction of Ukraine and domination in Europe, so why would he accept the deal?”
«I don’t think that the country under attack should make concessions and stop resisting – specifies Podolyak -. We have been fighting for three years and now we should give up our sovereignty? Unfortunately I don’t see the same discussion about what Russia should give or pay. It’s a bit strange, isn’t it? We bring pragmatism to the negotiating table. We have developed military expertise and can offer Trump a partial replacement of American contingents in various regions, first of all in Europe. We also have deposits of rare minerals, such as lithium and titanium, that we can exploit together. The rational approach is to force Russia to accept appropriate conditions. Don’t ask or negotiate, but oblige.”
«The tools exist – continues the presidential advisor – and I am not talking about the military ones but rather the control of the price of oil. The US has the means to transform the market and make it unfavorable to Russia. They can also issue economic sanctions that actually hit Moscow. In my opinion this will be Trump’s line, he is someone who can take drastic measures. If we also inflict blows on a military level, as is happening on a smaller scale, we will influence the Russian internal front. As for Kursk, we are solving the problems positively, eliminating the positions that launched attacks on Chenihiv and Sumy. The point is another, when we began the operation in the region, we expected to be authorized to use (Western, ed.) missiles and to have more weapons of this kind.” The Ukraine situation will be a tough nut to crack for future President Trump.
#Trump #concessions #Russia #Tempo
What are Mykhailo Podolyak’s views on the implications of a potential Trump presidency for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity?
**Interview with Mykhailo Podolyak, Advisor to President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Podolyak. With Donald Trump’s potential return to the presidency on the horizon, how do you perceive his approach to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine?
**Podolyak:** Thank you for having me. It is crucial to understand that Trump’s presidency may bring significant shifts regarding Ukraine. There are troubling discussions suggesting that he might propose land concessions to Russia as a way to end the conflict. However, it’s vital to note that this would be succumbing to the aggressive ambitions of Vladimir Putin.
**Editor:** You mentioned concerns regarding land concessions. Can you elaborate on why this proposal is particularly unpopular in Ukraine?
**Podolyak:** Absolutely. First and foremost, the notion of conceding territory undermines our sovereignty. Ukraine has been resisting aggression for over three years, and the suggestion that we should simply give up land is not only offensive but fundamentally flawed. The narrative surrounding negotiations often places the burden on Ukraine while neglecting to hold Russia accountable for its expansionist goals.
**Editor:** Some believe a ceasefire might be beneficial for both sides. What is your stance on this?
**Podolyak:** I don’t believe that a country under attack should make concessions or cease its resistance. Ceasefires must be equitable, and any discussions should also focus on what Russia needs to concede. The idea that we should alone bear the cost of peace is perplexing and unjust. We have shown our capacity for military resilience, and any negotiations should reflect a balanced approach.
**Editor:** You mentioned pragmatism in negotiations. Can you share more about the potential concessions Ukraine could offer in lieu of land?
**Podolyak:** Certainly. Ukraine can bring significant value to the table beyond mere territory. We possess extensive military expertise, and we can offer support to U.S. contingents in various capacities. Additionally, Ukraine is rich in natural resources like lithium and titanium, which are valuable for global markets. A rational and productive dialogue should focus on mutual benefits rather than unilateral concessions.
**Editor:** if the discussion shifts towards a more pragmatic approach under a Trump presidency, what would be your expectations?
**Podolyak:** My expectation is straightforward: Russia must be compelled to accept terms that respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and integrity. We should not approach these discussions from a place of weakness but rather from a position of strength, ensuring that any agreements reached are just and promote lasting peace in the region.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Mr. Podolyak. It’s a complex situation, and we appreciate your perspective on these crucial issues.
**Podolyak:** Thank you for having me. It is vital to keep these discussions alive and to ensure that the world understands Ukraine’s position and resilience.