Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in a press conference on Saturday that the United States is the only global power with the capacity and influence to persuade Russia to end the war in his country. These remarks come at a highly sensitive time, as all eyes are on Miami, Florida, which is hosting diplomatic delegations for a new round of crucial talks.
The pivotal American role in the conflict
Zelenskyy told reporters unequivocally, “I believe a similar power exists in the United States and with President Donald Trump. I believe we shouldn’t look for alternatives to the United States. There are questions about the capacity of any alternative to do so.” This statement reflects Kyiv’s firm conviction that the keys to resolving the conflict lie with Washington, given its unparalleled military, economic, and political weight, both within and outside Europe.
Context of the talks and the required pressures
In connection with the ongoing talks, the Ukrainian president stressed the need for Washington to exert more real pressure on Moscow. Zelenskyy stated, “The United States must say clearly: if there is no diplomatic solution, there will be full-scale pressure.” He outlined two main avenues for this pressure: military, through supplying Kyiv with more advanced weaponry, and economic, through expanding sanctions to encompass the entire Russian economy, thus further crippling the Russian war machine.
Background of the conflict and international dimensions
These statements take on particular significance given the timeline of the conflict, which began in February 2022, transforming the Russian-Ukrainian war into the largest land conflict in Europe since World War II. Throughout this period, the United States has been Ukraine's strongest supporter, providing billions of dollars in military and financial aid, enabling Kyiv to withstand the onslaught and regain some territory. With the political shifts in Washington and the return of President Donald Trump, Zelensky is seeking to ensure the continuation of this support and steer it toward a path that ends the war on terms that guarantee Ukraine's sovereignty.
Expected effects of the American position
Observers believe that Zelensky's reliance on the United States stems from a realistic understanding of the balance of power; Europe, despite its significant support, lacks sufficient leverage to deter Moscow on its own. The United States' success in persuading or compelling Russia to return to the negotiating table will not only end the suffering of the Ukrainian people but also avert serious economic repercussions for the world, impacting energy and food markets, and will redraw the geopolitical map of European security for years to come.
