«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 skills 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 specific concerns does Mykhailo Podolyak have regarding Donald Trump’s approach to negotiations with Russia?
### Interview with Mykhailo Podolyak, Advisor to Ukrainian President Zelensky
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Podolyak. You recently made significant statements regarding Donald Trump and his potential negotiations with Russia. Can you explain your concerns about these alleged proposals?
**Podolyak**: Thank you for having me. My primary concern is that any projects suggesting concessions to Russia, particularly concerning our occupied territories, are fundamentally flawed. Trump’s approach appears to align too closely with Vladimir Putin’s agenda. If Trump were to pursue an adversarial stance against Putin, he risks compromising his position as a leading figure in global politics, which I believe he cannot accept.
**Editor**: You mentioned the notion of a ceasefire in exchange for territory. How do you view this proposition when considering Ukraine’s sovereignty?
**Podolyak**: The very idea that Ukraine should concede its hard-won sovereignty is unacceptable. For three years, we have fought fiercely against aggression, and the narrative suggesting we should surrender any part of our territory to appease Russia is deeply troubling. Putin seeks to diminish Ukraine and extend his influence over Europe; therefore, why would he ever agree to a deal that would curtail his ambitions?
**Editor**: You suggest that the conversation surrounding peace talks is disproportionately focused on what Ukraine should give up. What do you believe Russia should concede in these discussions?
**Podolyak**: Precisely. The dialog often reflects an imbalance where Ukraine is expected to yield, while little attention is paid to what Russia might forfeit. We need to turn the conversation around. We are not merely negotiating; we need to compel Russia to acknowledge our conditions. Ukraine has strengthened its military capabilities over the years, and we have vital resources like lithium and titanium. This adds leverage to our position.
**Editor**: So, you believe that Ukraine can offer significant military support in negotiations as well?
**Podolyak**: Absolutely. We can provide a substantial partial replacement for U.S. contingents in Europe, ensuring both our and their security interests are safeguarded. It’s time to approach these discussions with pragmatism—demanding instead of merely asking.
**Editor**: What message do you hope to convey to international leaders watching this conflict unfold?
**Podolyak**: The message is clear: Ukraine will not capitulate. We will stand our ground and fight for our sovereignty. Any discussions regarding peace must center around mutual respect and the reality that aggression cannot be rewarded. We urge our international partners to support Ukraine in holding Russia accountable for its actions.
**Editor**: Thank you for your insights, Mr. Podolyak. Your perspectives on this complex issue shed light on the ongoing discussions and Ukraine’s position.
**Podolyak**: Thank you for the opportunity to speak about this vital matter.
