Russia is reportedly preparing to declare victory in its war against Ukraine within days, as tensions between Washington and Kyiv escalate following Donald Trump’s harsh criticism of Volodymyr Zelensky.
Russia’s plan to frame victory over Ukraine and NATO
According to Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, Vladimir Putin is expected to announce the victory as a symbolic triumph not just over Ukraine, but also over NATO. The Kremlin is aiming to portray the conflict as a broader defeat for the West, using the war’s third anniversary on February 24, 2025, as the moment for the declaration.
Ukraine’s GUR agency warned that Russia’s propaganda machine is in full swing, attempting to rebrand Moscow as the only side willing to negotiate peace, while labeling nations opposing its territorial gains as enemies of peace.
Trump’s remarks shift the political landscape
Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Zelensky, blaming him for the war and calling him a dictator without elections. In response, Zelensky accused Trump of falling for Russian disinformation.
Trump’s close ally, Elon Musk, added fuel to the fire, claiming Zelensky canceled elections because he knew he would lose. Musk went further, accusing the Ukrainian leader of running a fraud machine feeding off the dead bodies of soldiers.
Diplomatic fallout over Ukraine’s rejected US deal
Tensions between the US and Ukraine deepened after Kyiv rejected a US proposal to repay military aid by handing over a share of its natural resources, including rare earth minerals, oil, and gas exports.
Following Ukraine’s refusal, the US abruptly canceled a joint press conference with Zelensky, signaling a growing divide between the two nations.
European leaders push back on Trump’s approach
As Trump seeks a resolution to the war, European leaders are moving quickly to influence negotiations. French President Emmanuel Macron plans to meet with Trump at the White House, where he will warn the US president that he cannot be weak with Putin.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is also scheduled for talks with Trump, with concerns that any rushed settlement could favor Russia and reward aggression.
What’s next for Ukraine?
Ukraine’s intelligence chief, Lt-Gen Kyrylo Budanov, has predicted a possible ceasefire this year, though he warned it could be short-lived and fragile.
As Putin moves toward declaring victory and diplomatic tensions mount, Ukraine faces an uncertain future on the battlefield and in its alliances with the West.
