"U.S. Agreement Unfavorable Toward Ukraine, Detriment to Europe According to Revised Terms by Trump"
In recent developments, former U.S. President Donald Trump's actions and statements regarding the Ukraine crisis have raised concerns about a potential shift in the global political landscape.
Trump's comments, which include blaming Ukraine for starting the Ukraine war and criticising President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, have been met with shock and dismay from his own Republican Party members and European leaders. His accusations against Ukraine, such as the claim that Ukraine burned cash, weapons, and ammunition that the U.S. provided as aid, have little correlation with the facts.
Trump's actions suggest a disregard for the relative peace and prosperity brought about by the rules-based world order. His statements indicate support for Russia over Ukraine, a move that could signal a shift in the balance of power towards Russia at the expense of Ukraine and its European allies. If Trump were to drop sanctions imposed on Russia for starting the Ukraine war, as some reports suggest, he could contribute to the destruction of the rules-based world order.
Trump's peace plan with Russia, if realised, is likely to be heavily slanted against Ukraine. This could potentially pave the way for Ukraine to lose Russian-occupied territory, amounting to approximately 65,000 square kilometres. Such a development would embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin, who ordered his troops into Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Reports suggest that Mr Putin may declare victory over Ukraine and NATO on the third anniversary of the war, emboldened by Trump's comments on President Zelenskyy.
Trump's actions also risk shattering the Trans-Atlantic alliance with Europe, which has been instrumental in shaping the world order post-World War II. Europe has stood by Ukraine for three years since the invasion, but Trump seems prepared to exclude them from talks aimed at ending the Ukraine war. This could potentially undermine democracy, both at home and in Europe.
The change in regime in Washington may be responsible for a potential declaration of victory by Mr Putin. The US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is reportedly working on plans to lift some sanctions against Russia, including the possibility of forming new mining ventures with Russia, as part of economic incentives to end the war in Ukraine. These activities are associated with the Trump administration's efforts in mid-2025 around the Alaska summit with Russia.
Trump's comments could potentially pave the way for a change in the global political landscape, with Russia gaining influence at the expense of the West. It is crucial for all parties involved to uphold the principles of democracy and the rules-based world order in their dealings with the Ukraine crisis.
