Nataliya Gumenyuk, a seasoned Ukrainian journalist known for her frontline reporting, sheds light on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the shifting dynamics with the U.S. under Trump. She discusses the intense Ukrainian resistance to ceding territory, driven by patriotism and the stark realities of Russian rule. Gumenyuk delves into daily life under occupation, the manipulation of local populations, and the complexities of navigating U.S. pressure for a settlement. Her insights reveal the profound human impact of geopolitical decisions amidst the war.
Ukrainians remain resolute in their fight for sovereignty against Russian occupation, driven by both patriotism and the understanding of potential suffering under Moscow's rule.
Recent U.S. policy shifts under Donald Trump have caused concerns among Ukrainians regarding foreign support, emphasizing the importance of a continued partnership with the West for their security.
Deep dives
Ukrainian Resistance Against Ceasefire Pressures
Ukrainians emphasize that their primary goal is not to destroy Russia but to ensure the failure of Russia's mission in Ukraine. Despite pressure from external forces, such as the United States under Donald Trump's administration, Ukrainians remain steadfast in their determination to avoid any settlement that would compromise their territorial integrity or sovereignty. The societal resolve stems from a shared understanding that living under Russian rule would be unbearable, as many have experienced the brutality of the occupation. Amidst ongoing calls for negotiation, Ukrainians express a united front on continuing the fight for independence, illustrating the deep-seated patriotism that fuels their resistance.
Impact of U.S. Policy on Ukrainian Morale
Recent changes in U.S. policy, particularly Trump's engagement with Putin and criticism of Zelensky, have caused concern among Ukrainians about the stability of American support. Ukrainians have long anticipated a potential shift in U.S. backing, which informs their pragmatic approach to the situation, balancing potential future relationships while aiming to maintain their current support. While there are voices calling for self-reliance, a shared belief persists that a robust partnership with the West, particularly the U.S., is crucial for Ukraine's security. Such dynamics have led to increased determination and unity among Ukrainians, reinforcing their resolve to continue the fight for their sovereignty.
Current Military Situation and Strategies
As the war stretches into its third year, recent reports indicate an improvement in the military situation for Ukraine, with successful retakes of strategic areas and a slowing Russian offensive over the past months. Ukrainian forces are adapting their strategies in response to the evolving battlefield dynamics, learning from previous challenges and setbacks. While the international focus remains on negotiating peace, the reality is that intense fighting continues, as Ukraine persists in defending its sovereignty against potential Russian advances. This ongoing struggle highlights the urgent need for military support and resources to ensure that Ukraine can sustain its defense and negotiate from a position of strength.
The Human Cost and Broader Implications of Occupation
Occupying forces in Ukraine employ a strategy of repression and control that not only targets the local population but also poses significant threats to Ukrainian sovereignty as a whole. Human rights abuses under occupation are not merely isolated incidents but form a core element of Russia's strategy to destabilize Ukraine by instilling fear and exerting influence in occupied territories. The long-term implications of this strategy threaten to erode Ukrainian identity as Russian forces attempt to cultivate loyalty among the populations of occupied territories. As time progresses, the persistence of occupation exacerbates challenges for Ukraine, necessitating a comprehensive approach to ensure security and sovereignty while navigating the complexities of international diplomacy.
After three years of war, Ukraine is facing intense pressure from Donald Trump to reach a settlement with Russia. Trump has engaged directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin while calling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a dictator. His administration has sidelined European allies while joining a handful of Russian partners in voting against a UN resolution condemning Putin’s aggression. And U.S. officials have pressured Ukraine into signing over critical mineral resources.
And yet despite this new geopolitical reality, and despite month after month of grueling fighting that has Russian forces taking territory by the day, Ukrainians themselves remain deeply resistant to accepting an end to the war that would sacrifice their country’s territory and sovereignty.
In a new essay for Foreign Affairs, the Ukrainian journalist Nataliya Gumenyuk explains that Ukrainians’ resistance emerges not only out of a sense of patriotism but also, she writes, “because they know there is little chance of survival under Moscow’s rule.” For years, Gumenyuk has reported from Ukraine’s conflict zones, documenting the brutality and trying to understand the logic of Russian occupation.
She spoke with senior editor Hugh Eakin on February 21 about how Ukrainians are reacting to the shift in U.S. policy, what life is like in the almost 20 percent of their country under Russian control, and where Ukraine goes from here.