Peace talks – Is Trump throwing Ukraine to the wolves?
Feb 20, 2025
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Maria Avdeeva, a security expert and senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, delves into the dangerous implications of Trump sidelining Ukraine in peace talks with Russia. She discusses the deep frustrations felt by Ukrainians, who fear betrayal and demand a say in their future. The conversation also highlights skepticism towards potential peace agreements and emphasizes Ukraine's unwavering spirit to defend its sovereignty. The geopolitical landscape, including international peacekeeping considerations, adds further complexity to an already tense situation.
Ukraine's response to US-Russia talks reflects deep concern over being sidelined as they continue to resist external pressures.
The need for robust security guarantees is emphasized by Ukrainians as essential for any potential peace negotiations with Russia.
Deep dives
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Ukrainian Response to Ongoing Negotiations
The reaction within Ukraine regarding the current diplomatic talks between the US and Russia is marked by surprise and concern. Many Ukrainians feel disheartened as their country is portrayed as an aggressor by international leaders, including Donald Trump, which contradicts the narrative they have experienced over the last three years of conflict. The persistent resilience of Ukrainians in continuing their daily lives and fighting for their sovereignty remains strong, despite external pressures and negative rhetoric surrounding their leadership. As they brace for a potentially drawn-out conflict, the citizens unite in their support for President Zelensky, emphasizing a reluctance to concede territory or legitimacy to Russian claims.
Expectations for Future Peace and Security Guarantees
Discussions center around the necessity of concrete security guarantees for Ukraine as a prerequisite for any ceasefire or peace agreement. The prevailing sentiment is that any compromise should not involve recognizing territorial losses or Russian control over Ukrainian land. As Ukraine remains committed to reclaiming its territories when conditions allow, there is hope that European allies can play a pivotal role in establishing these security assurances. Overall, the complexities of the ongoing war, coupled with Russia's unyielding strategy, underline a challenging path ahead for any diplomatic resolution to the conflict.
The free world is reeling and Putin is jubilant as Trump goes over the heads of Ukraine and Europe to “negotiate” directly with Russia – cutting Zelenskyy and European leaders out of talks in Saudi Arabia. Will the two autocrats simply carve Ukraine up between them? Will they heed Zelenskyy’s demand that there be no settlement without Ukraine’s participation? And given Russia’s record of deception, is the notion of a fair and lasting peace just a naive fantasy?
Oz Katerji hears the reaction to the Riyadh talks from Kyiv with Maria Avdeeva, security expert and senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute.
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Written and presented by Oz Katerji. Produced by Robin Leeburn. Original theme music by Paul Hartnoll – https://www.orbitalofficial.com. Executive Producer Martin Bojtos. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. This Is Not A Drill is a Podmasters production.