Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently expressed confidence that the war with Russia could end sooner under Donald Trump’s policies if he returns to office in the U.S. In a recent interview, Zelensky called a recent phone conversation with Trump “constructive,” but did not elaborate on specific demands or details related to negotiations with Russia.

Trump, who has long promised to end the war quickly, has yet to specify his exact strategy, though his approach remains a subject of debate. The U.S. has been a major source of military aid to Ukraine, contributing over $55 billion in weapons and equipment. However, domestic support for continued aid, particularly among Republican voters, has diminished over time.

Zelensky stressed Ukraine’s commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to the conflict, though progress has been slow since Ukraine’s counter-offensive stalled in 2023. Despite ongoing territorial struggles, including recent Russian advances in the eastern part of Ukraine, Zelensky remains firm in not conceding any Ukrainian territory, particularly Crimea, which Russia has controlled since 2014.

The diplomatic push comes at a time of growing international fatigue regarding the war. Some fear that Trump’s approach could effectively result in a surrender for Ukraine, potentially destabilizing broader European security. However, European leaders, such as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, have suggested that Trump’s stance on the conflict may be more nuanced than initially assumed