In a fiery exchange during Tuesday’s presidential debate, former President Donald Trump expressed a desire for an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine but dodged questions about whether he wishes for Ukraine to emerge victorious. Trump made false claims about the death toll from the conflict, stating millions had died when reports indicate around 11,700 civilian deaths. He also baselessly accused Vice President Kamala Harris of mishandling a diplomatic mission before Russia’s invasion.

Trump’s remarks have raised concerns among Ukraine and its allies that a return to power for him could lead to detrimental peace terms favoring Russia. Ukraine relies on U.S. military and financial assistance to combat Russian forces, and losing that support could be devastating for Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

During the debate, moderator David Muir pressed Trump twice on whether he supports Ukraine winning the war, to which Trump responded that he wants the war to end to save lives without addressing Ukraine’s victory. Trump has promised to broker a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia swiftly if re-elected, raising fears that such a deal might come at the expense of Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Critics have pointed out Trump’s admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his lack of warmth towards Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Biden administration believes a Ukrainian victory would deter Putin from further aggression against Western democracies. President Joe Biden has been instrumental in garnering international support for Ukraine and issuing sanctions against Russia.

Trump’s accusation that Harris’ diplomatic efforts somehow triggered Russia’s invasion has been refuted by the U.S. government, which had intelligence on Russian troop movements prior to the invasion. Despite Trump’s claims, Harris did not meet with Putin during her mission to Europe before the conflict erupted.