The Kremlin on Sunday (Nov 10) said that they observed “positive signals” from US president-elect Donald Trump’s stance on Ukraine but cautioned that his actions in office remain unpredictable.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, in an interview with state media, said, “The signals are positive. Trump during his election talked about how he perceives everything through deals, that he can make a deal that can lead to peace.”
“At least he’s talking about peace, and not about confrontation. He isn’t talking about his wish to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia that distinguishes him from the current administration,” Peskov continued.
However, Peskov pointed out to Trump’s unpredictability, suggesting that only time would reveal if his presidency might contribute to resolving the conflict in Ukraine. “What will happen next, it’s hard to say,” Peskov said, describing Trump as “less predictable” than Biden or Harris.
Peskov added, “It’s also less predictable to what extent he will stick to the statements that he made on the campaign trail.” Trump has not yet specified the terms of a potential peace agreement or how he plans to approach negotiations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has stressed that Ukraine must give up eastern and southern territories as a prerequisite for peace talks.
In response to Trump’s victory, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned against any “concessions” to Putin, warning that surrendering land or meeting Russia’s demands could encourage further Kremlin aggression. Zelensky has also previously stressed that without continued US assistance, Ukraine’s ability to defend itself in the conflict would be at serious risk.
Trump’s election brings the possibility of major changes to the nearly three-year conflict, raising questions over Washington’s multi-billion dollar support for Kyiv. During his campaign, Trump suggested he could bring an end to the fighting within hours and has indicated he would engage directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a notable shift from President Joe Biden’s approach.
(With inputs from agencies)