President Trump’s attempt to end the war in Ukraine is misguided and counterproductive, with his administration’s actions harming American interests and values. The president’s unilateral approach to negotiations with Russia, excluding Ukraine and NATO allies, is a significant departure from America’s long-standing commitment to supporting its European partners.
Critics of President Trump have pointed out that his administration has disregarded key principles, including the “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine” policy, which emphasizes Ukrainian involvement in any peace talks. The president’s statements suggesting Ukraine is responsible for the war and his demand for access to Ukraine’s mineral wealth as a condition for military support are particularly troubling.
While it is true that some Republican lawmakers have called for increased aid to Ukraine, few have spoken out against President Trump’s actions. This lack of challenge from Republican leadership has allowed the president to push through policies that undermine America’s commitment to democracy and freedom in Eastern Europe.
The Editorial Board argues that the United States must stand firm in its support for Ukraine, following its long history of advocating for democratic values and security in the region. The Biden administration’s failure to articulate a clear strategy for ending the war is not an excuse for President Trump’s own lack of leadership on this issue.
Ultimately, President Trump’s actions demonstrate a concerning pattern of behavior that prioritizes his personal agenda over American interests. As the leader of the world’s most powerful democracy, he has a responsibility to manage international relations wisely and humanely, using diplomacy when possible and judiciously applying pressure or force when necessary.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/22/opinion/trump-ukraine-russia-republicans.html