Donald Trump's Peace Promises Dismissed in Russia Ahead of Inauguration
As the world watches Donald Trump’s return to the White House, his promise to end the ongoing Ukraine conflict swiftly is being met with skepticism, particularly in Russia. Trump, known for his bold and often polarizing statements, has pledged to broker peace within a short span of time. However, on the streets of Moscow, many doubt the feasibility of his ambitions.
The nearly three-year-long conflict in Ukraine has left a devastating impact on both nations, with neither side appearing ready to compromise. While Trump and his team have insisted that a resolution will require concessions from both Ukraine and Russia, many Russians believe that only their president, Vladimir Putin, holds the power to end the war.
Igor, a 37-year-old engineer in Moscow, captured the sentiment succinctly: “Whether it’s Trump or another politician, nothing will change. Only one person can change things, and we know who that is.” This reflects the broader view that Putin’s decisions, rather than international mediators, will shape the future of the conflict.
The Kremlin has expressed willingness to engage in talks with Trump. However, its conditions remain rigid, demanding Ukraine’s withdrawal from the four regions Russia claims as its own. These demands, coupled with Kyiv’s fears of being forced into an unfavorable settlement, highlight the complexities surrounding potential peace negotiations.
In Ukraine, Trump’s promise has sparked concerns of a compromise that could benefit Moscow. Ukrainian officials worry that a deal might sacrifice their territorial integrity. Meanwhile, in Moscow, skepticism dominates. Anna Petrova, a 75-year-old pensioner, voiced her concerns, saying, “I’m afraid Trump is going to impose conditions that don’t suit us. They want a truce, and we want victory.”
Trump’s pledge has also been criticized as populist rhetoric by some Russians, who recall his controversial past statements, including calls to annex territories like Canada and Greenland. These remarks have contributed to doubts about his ability to navigate the intricacies of the Ukraine conflict.
The situation on the ground further complicates Trump’s proposed timeline. Ukrainian forces have intensified strikes on Russian military and energy sites, while Russia continues to advance in the eastern Donetsk region. Both nations are seeking to strengthen their positions on the battlefield, suggesting that the conflict is far from nearing a resolution.
Despite Trump’s assertion of a quick peace, many in Moscow remain unconvinced. Anton, a 45-year-old employee of a state company, expressed cautious optimism: “I don’t think the situation will change radically anytime soon. Maybe with time.” His words echo the broader sentiment that while peace might eventually be possible, it will likely require more time and effort than Trump anticipates.
Trump’s inauguration marks a pivotal moment, but the realities of the Ukraine conflict present challenges that cannot be easily overcome. With deep-seated mistrust on both sides and competing priorities, achieving peace will demand more than bold promises—it will require patience, diplomacy, and a willingness to compromise.
Refrence From: www.ndtv.com