MUNICH — At the Munich Security Conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a heartfelt appeal to former President Donald Trump, referring to his past as a skilled negotiator and seeking his involvement in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Zelenskyy expressed hope that Trump would take an active role in negotiations, emphasizing, “I really count on him because he is the president of the United States.”
While Trump was not present at the conference, his influence was felt throughout the discussions. During a panel with U.S. senators, Zelenskyy praised the American president, stating, “I see, yes, that he is a strong man. And if he will choose our side, and if he will not be in the middle, I think he will pressure and he will push Putin to stop the war. He can do it.”
Zelenskyy’s remarks followed Trump’s recent conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which has caused concern given Trump’s previously unwavering support for Ukraine. The former president has been non-committal about his future intentions, implying that a resolution may involve Ukraine having to give up territories that have been taken by Russia since the 2014 annexation of Crimea.
The former president’s track record as a negotiator has been a significant part of his identity, a narrative established from his time in New York real estate, including his 1987 publication “The Art of the Deal” and his reality show “The Apprentice.” During the conference, Zelenskyy mentioned his willingness to meet with Putin “only after we have common plan with Trump,” also revealing that Trump provided him with his phone number.
Some attendees at the conference expressed caution regarding Trump’s approach to negotiation. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier voiced his concerns, stating, “I am convinced that a simple ‘make a deal and leave’ would weaken us all: Ukraine and Europe, but also the U.S.”
Conversely, Lithuania’s defense minister emphasized that Europe must recognize its critical reliance on the U.S., pointing to Trump’s unconventional and creative problem-solving capabilities. Dovil? Šakalien? insisted that unity is essential: “We cannot get in a quarrel. We cannot become hostile to each other.”
In Warsaw, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth highlighted the importance of Trump’s involvement in any negotiations, asserting, “President Trump will be the one at the table with Zelenskyy and Putin,” aiming for “lasting and enduring peace” that would not encourage Russian aggression.
However, Hegseth noted that while Trump would be actively involved, he also anticipates that Putin could assert a form of victory “no matter what.” Zelenskyy recognized the complexities of this situation as various parties strive to emerge feeling victorious. He acknowledged, “I think everyone will try to come out of this situation as winners. The United States wants victory. The Russians want this victory very much, you understand. And Ukraine — it deserves it, that’s all. And that’s why it will be very difficult. Just very difficult.”
“But who said we wouldn’t overcome difficulties?” he concluded, underscoring his determination.
