In the pursuit of peace in Ukraine, Donald Trump presents a façade that crumbles upon closer inspection of his inner circle. His purported “peace plan” is not rooted in diplomacy but rather in a calculated business endeavor disguised as statesmanship. The objective seems clear: to coerce Ukraine into submission for the benefit of Trump and his affluent associates seeking to reestablish profitable ties with Moscow.
Trump’s recent remarks further unveil his intentions. By publicly admonishing Volodymyr Zelensky and urging him to “get his act together,” Trump sends a strong message of intimidation. His subsequent assertion that Russia has the upper hand due to its size serves as a strategic maneuver, indicating a preference for a certain outcome.
Furthermore, Trump’s criticism of European allies for being talkative but ineffectual weakens Ukraine’s position in negotiations. These actions set the stage for a potential agreement where Ukraine is pressured into ceding territory and compromising its sovereignty.
The centerpiece of Trump’s diplomatic push is a 28-point plan that neither Kyiv nor Moscow is likely to accept. The fundamental issues at stake, such as territorial integrity and protection from future aggression, hold existential importance for Ukraine. Yet, Trump treats these critical matters as mere bargaining chips up for negotiation, demonstrating a lack of regard for Ukraine’s national security.
Notably, the individuals Trump has dispatched for negotiations, like Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are not traditional peace envoys but rather investors seeking opportunities. In contrast, Vladimir Putin’s representative, Kirill Dmitriev, emphasizes investment strategy over diplomatic resolution, highlighting the commercial nature of the discussions.
The talks in Florida were not a genuine peace summit but rather a business meeting, with financial interests taking precedence over conflict resolution. Trump’s focus on pressuring Zelensky and emphasizing Russia’s advantage does not align with a genuine desire for peace but rather aims to pave the way for economic gains for his allies.
Forced peace under such circumstances is not true peace but rather a coerced surrender orchestrated by powerful individuals viewing Ukraine as a commodity to be exploited. Trump’s proposal, therefore, is accurately labeled as a self-serving scheme that prioritizes enriching a select few at the expense of Ukraine’s well-being.
In this context, Ukraine requires genuine partners committed to its prosperity and security, not opportunistic profiteers.