Is the US Pushing for an End to the Ukrainian Conflict Based on Current Frontlines?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- US Vice President J.D. Vance advocates for negotiations based on current battle lines.
- Funding for Ukraine from the US will cease, shifting the financial responsibility to European allies.
- Former President Trump is seen as a key figure in facilitating dialogue between Russia and Ukraine.
- President Zelensky opposes any territorial concessions.
- The upcoming summit could significantly impact the future of the Ukraine conflict.
Washington, Aug 10 (NationPress) In anticipation of the highly awaited summit between the US and Russian Presidents in Alaska, US Vice President J.D. Vance stated that efforts to settle the Ukraine conflict should be anchored in the current battle lines, although he acknowledged it may not please everyone.
During a conversation with Fox News, Vance characterized this approach as “a practical, albeit flawed, basis” for achieving a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, as reported by RT.
He also acknowledged the role of former President Donald Trump in facilitating a potential dialogue between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
“If you consider the existing line of contact between Russia and Ukraine, our goal is to seek a negotiated settlement that both Ukrainians and Russians can accept… a situation where the violence ceases,” Vance remarked to Fox News, admitting that “it’s unlikely to satisfy everyone.”
Trump previously suggested that the discussions might include “territorial exchanges that benefit both” sides, while Zelensky would need to navigate Ukrainian laws to endorse any such arrangement.
Zelensky has firmly rejected this notion, asserting that “no one can or will” concede on the matter. “Ukrainians will not surrender their land to occupiers,” he asserted.
Vance further claimed that President Trump had influenced Putin to reconsider his stance on meeting Zelensky, with talks between the three leaders now being contemplated.
When asked if a meeting between Putin and Zelensky should occur prior to Trump’s involvement, he expressed skepticism regarding its effectiveness, emphasizing that Trump must “unite these two for substantive advancement.”
In an interview following discussions with various European and Ukrainian officials in London, including UK Foreign Minister David Lammy, Vance also declared that the US would cease funding Ukraine.
He mentioned that Ukraine’s European allies could procure weapons from American manufacturers if they wish to continue aiding Kiev, and the US would “support that.”
He urged that Europe should take greater responsibility for financial support if they “truly care about this crisis.”
“Americans are weary of continually allocating their tax dollars to this conflict. If Europeans want to step up and purchase weapons from US suppliers, we’re fine with that. However, we will no longer fund it ourselves,” he stated.