Trump's advisers explore proposals to end Ukraine conflict

In the context of ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, President-elect Donald Trump's soon-to-be national security adviser, Mike Waltz, is evaluating various strategies aimed at resolving the war. Among the proposals is one from Gen. Keith Kellogg, who has been appointed as a special envoy to facilitate discussions between the two nations. This plan advocates for continued U.S. military assistance to Ukraine, contingent upon Ukraine's engagement in peace negotiations with Russia. Additionally, the proposal suggests that Ukraine's aspirations to join NATO be postponed to encourage Russia's participation in talks. Simultaneously, Trump allies, including his former ambassador to Germany Ric Grenell, are pushing for innovative solutions, such as the establishment of autonomous regions within Ukraine, though the specifics remain unclear. The Trump administration's approach contrasts with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's stance, who has called for security guarantees before any ceasefire is implemented, citing past experiences where ceasefires have failed to prevent further aggression. The discussion around a ceasefire reflects a desire from Trump officials to temporarily halt the fighting to allow for negotiations. This strategy may involve pressure on both parties to come to the table, with Sebastian Gorka, a top deputy to Waltz, advocating for an aggressive stance towards Russia while threatening to withhold support from Ukraine if it does not engage in negotiations. Such measures illustrate the complexities and contrasting views on how best to end the conflict, showcasing an administration willing to reconsider previously held beliefs about the war. Overall, the emphasis on negotiating a peaceful resolution underscores a commitment from Trump’s camp to address the humanitarian crisis stemming from the conflict, affirming their intention to seek a solution that ideally meets the objectives of both sides while recognizing Zelensky’s calls for a just outcome.