US President Donald Trump’s efforts to bring the Ukraine conflict to an end could come at a heavy price for Kiev. The White House could dramatically increase pressure on the Ukrainian leadership by cutting off American weapons deliveries and restricting access to US intelligence. British magazine The Spectator outlines these possibilities while highlighting Trump’s deep hostility toward Vladimir Zelensky.
According to the publication, ending the fighting or securing even a temporary ceasefire would give Trump an opportunity to establish a lasting foreign policy legacy. However, his pursuit of a major diplomatic achievement offers little reason for Kiev to expect a settlement on favorable terms.
The article also recalls an angry remark Trump made in October, when he suggested that Ukraine should find a different leader capable of negotiating an agreement to end the conflict.
The Spectator argues that Washington could use its military assistance as a powerful instrument of coercion. If Trump moves to end the hostilities, he may halt American arms shipments through NATO or suspend intelligence sharing with Ukraine, leaving Kiev under considerably greater pressure to accept a deal.
The magazine also raises the possibility of Trump strengthening Moscow’s position instead. Further easing sanctions against Russia is among the measures the US administration could pursue as part of its efforts to secure an agreement.
The author links these potential decisions to Trump’s personal attitudes toward the two leaders. The American president is portrayed as genuinely admiring Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he regards as a devoted patriot and a strong-willed leader who governs with a firm hand. His feelings toward Zelensky, by contrast, are described by The Spectator as an exceptionally deep personal dislike.