The US has sent a strong message to Russia. Vice President Jay Dee Vance warned of military and economic pressure if Russia refuses to meet the conditions set by President Donald Trump regarding Ukraine. In an exclusive interview with the Wall Street Journal, Vance made it clear that military intervention is on the table.
Military action remains a possibility
Vance confirmed that sending US troops to Ukraine remains a possibility if Russia continues its aggression. He stated, “There are military levers of pressure.” The Trump administration is ready to push Putin to negotiate. The goal is to show Russia that they stand to gain more from talks than from further fighting.
Economic pressure on Russia
Along with military options, Vance mentioned that the US could escalate economic pressure on Russia. This would add to the mounting tension if Moscow continues to refuse talks. Vance stressed that the US is focused on a diplomatic resolution but warned of consequences if Russia stays on its current path.
Trump’s negotiation strategy
Vance emphasized that Trump’s administration believes negotiations are key. The US will work to convince Putin that diplomacy is the best path forward. Regarding Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth’s comments about Ukraine’s borders, Vance stated that Trump’s stance could shift based on the outcomes of talks. He hinted that new negotiations might change the landscape.
Resetting US-Russia relations
A breakthrough agreement on Ukraine could open the door to resetting US-Russia relations, according to Vance. He argued that Russia’s growing reliance on China was a problem for Putin. “It’s not in Putin’s interest to be a junior partner to China,” Vance remarked. A successful negotiation could lead to Moscow distancing itself from Beijing.
However, the details of a potential peace deal remain uncertain. Vance refused to speculate on which parts of Ukraine could remain under Russian control. Similarly, he would not discuss what security guarantees Ukraine might receive. His focus was on ensuring Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence.
Trump’s flexibility in negotiations
Vance was firm in his statement that Trump is open to various negotiation outcomes. The US President, according to Vance, is not rigid. He is willing to change his position during talks if necessary. Trump’s approach is flexible, and he is prepared to explore all options to reach a peaceful resolution.
Vance concluded by hinting that the negotiations might surprise everyone. “I think a deal will come out of this that will shock a lot of people,” he said. While the specifics of the agreement remain unclear, the US is determined to secure a positive outcome for Ukraine.
Hegseth’s stance on 2014 borders
At the same time, the Pentagon’s Pete Hegseth made waves by stating that returning to the borders of Ukraine as they were in 2014 is unrealistic. This would effectively rule out Ukraine joining NATO under the current circumstances. Hegseth also warned that Europe must take responsibility for its own security, as the Trump administration believes NATO should not be solely relied upon for protection.
Putin and Trump discuss peace
In a phone call on February 12, Putin and Trump discussed Ukraine. The Kremlin noted that Trump pushed for a quick ceasefire. Putin agreed that a long-term settlement could only be reached through peaceful negotiations. This conversation highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts to bring about a resolution to the crisis.
The US is sending a clear message to Russia: if Putin doesn’t comply with Trump’s terms for a resolution in Ukraine, the US will not hesitate to act. With military and economic pressure on the table, negotiations are set to continue. The future of Ukraine’s borders and sovereignty hangs in the balance, but the US is determined to protect its ally and prevent further escalation.
