US Vice President JD Vance said the country is working with Russia on a plan to end the years-long war in Ukraine, as it cuts defense aid to Kyiv. The proposal involves giving American economic interests “on the ground” in Ukraine, which would provide a superior security guarantee compared to deploying troops. Vance warned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that he needs to accept US-backed terms for a mineral rights deal and engage in negotiations with Moscow.
The announcement comes after an Oval Office shouting match between Zelensky and Vance, as well as Trump. The Trump administration has halted some defense aid to Kyiv at a critical time in the war, which has been ongoing since 2022. Vance argued that this approach would be more effective in securing a future ceasefire than deploying troops.
Vance emphasized that rebuilding Ukraine is key to ensuring its security and economic stability. He claimed that Zelensky’s refusal to engage with Trump’s peace plan demonstrated his lack of willingness to cooperate on finding a solution. However, Vance remains optimistic, stating that Ukraine needs to “engage seriously” in the peace process.
The US has set a clear goal for its administration regarding Ukraine: to end the violence without regard for changes to European borders. Vance’s comments suggest that this approach may be the most effective way forward in achieving a peaceful resolution.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/jd-vance-ukraine-russia-aid-zelensky-b2708399.html