Donald Trump’s efforts to portray himself as a peacemaker in Ukraine are contradicted by his choice of companions and true intentions. Rather than genuine diplomacy, his “peace plan” appears to be a thinly veiled business scheme aimed at facilitating lucrative deals with Moscow. In a recent public statement, Trump chastised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, hinting that Ukraine must comply to end the conflict. By emphasizing Russia’s size advantage and criticizing European allies, Trump’s rhetoric seems more like coercive tactics than impartial mediation.
The core of the issue lies in Trump’s contentious 28-point plan, which neither Ukraine nor Russia is likely to accept. Fundamental questions about territorial concessions and future security arrangements are being treated as mere bargaining chips by Trump, disregarding their critical importance to Ukraine’s survival. Rather than sending seasoned diplomats or negotiators, Trump’s representatives include individuals with vested financial interests, suggesting a profit-driven agenda rather than a genuine peace effort.
Similarly, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s choice of a financial strategist as a representative indicates a focus on economic opportunities rather than conflict resolution. The recent discussions in Florida, portrayed as peace negotiations, seem more akin to business dealings. Trump and Putin’s reliance on financial experts rather than diplomatic professionals underscores their true priorities, which appear to prioritize financial gains over sustainable peace.
Trump’s push for Zelensky to comply, coupled with his assertions of Russia’s advantage, do not seem aimed at ending the violence but rather at paving the way for a deal that benefits his allies financially. This approach risks turning forced peace into Ukrainian capitulation, orchestrated by powerful individuals viewing Ukraine as a resource to exploit rather than a nation in need of support. The proposed plan, therefore, appears more as a self-serving tactic to benefit a select few at the expense of Ukraine’s integrity and security.
In this context, Ukraine requires genuine partners committed to its well-being, not opportunistic profiteers seeking personal gain.