Russia-Ukraine: Zelensky says lasting peace achievable this year after he and Trump hail 'positive' call - BBC.com

Zelensky Optimistic About Peace Prospects in 2024 Following "Positive" Exchange with Trump

Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, has expressed cautious optimism regarding the possibility of achieving a lasting peace settlement in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict this year. This hopeful outlook follows what both Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump have described as a "positive" phone conversation. The exchange raises intriguing questions about the future direction of the war and potential shifts in international diplomacy.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict, now well into its third year, has resulted in immense human suffering and geopolitical instability. Initial Russian advances were repelled by fierce Ukrainian resistance, backed by substantial military and financial aid from Western nations. Despite battlefield stalemates and shifting frontlines, diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire or lasting resolution have remained largely unsuccessful.

Recent developments suggest a potential, though fragile, opening. Zelensky, in comments reported by BBC.com, stated that the call with Trump focused on pathways to achieving peace. While details of the conversation remain limited, the mutual characterization of it as "positive" suggests a potential convergence of ideas. It remains to be seen whether these ideas align with Ukraine's core demands, including the restoration of its territorial integrity.

However, other sources indicate potentially controversial aspects of the discussion. Some reports suggest Trump floated the idea of the US taking ownership of Ukrainian power plants for security reasons, an idea that, if pursued, would likely face considerable opposition within Ukraine and among its allies. Such proposals highlight the complexities involved in finding a resolution acceptable to all parties involved.

The implications of this exchange are significant. Trump's potential return to the US presidency could dramatically alter Washington's approach to the conflict. His previous criticisms of NATO and stated desire for closer ties with Russia have fueled concerns about a possible reduction in US support for Ukraine. "A Trump administration could potentially pressure Ukraine to accept less favorable terms in any peace negotiation," noted geopolitical analyst Dr. Anya Petrova.

The timing of this communication is also noteworthy. With Ukraine facing ongoing military challenges and Western aid packages facing political hurdles, Zelensky may be exploring all available avenues to de-escalate the conflict. Whether this dialogue represents a genuine opportunity for progress or a calculated political maneuver remains to be seen.

Ultimately, the path to a lasting peace in Ukraine remains fraught with challenges. While the recent call between Zelensky and Trump offers a glimmer of hope, significant obstacles remain. The positions of Russia, Ukraine, and their international partners will need to align for any substantive progress to be made towards ending this devastating conflict. The world awaits to see if 2024 will indeed be the year that lasting peace in Ukraine becomes achievable.