In the first three months of Donald Trump’s second term as US President, his administration’s approach to the war in Ukraine has shifted dramatically from that of his predecessor. Despite earlier claims that he could negotiate a peace deal within 24 hours of taking office, Trump has made little progress towards achieving a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.
Following a brief Easter pause in hostilities announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin, fighting has continued across Ukraine. No substantial concessions have been secured from Moscow, and Trump has instead sparked controversy by labelling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a “dictator”, souring ties with Kyiv and unsettling US allies in Europe.
Washington's pivot towards a more conciliatory stance with the Kremlin has been welcomed by many in Russia, while leaving Ukrainians disillusioned and alarmed. Tymofiy Mylovanov, head of the Kyiv School of Economics, noted that everyday realities in Ukraine remain unchanged — with ongoing air raid sirens and bombings.
Despite rounds of negotiations involving both Russian and Ukrainian representatives, Russia has continued its missile strikes, including a recent deadly attack on Sumy that killed 35 and injured over 100. Ukrainian forces have lost nearly all leverage in the Kursk region, their key bargaining position.
Locals in Ukraine, like photographer Anna Klyshkina from Sumy, have expressed growing disillusionment with Trump, saying conditions have worsened since his return to office. Ukrainian soldiers on the frontlines have similarly voiced scepticism, describing Trump as a “showman” rather than a serious political leader.
A major policy shift occurred in March when Trump temporarily halted military aid to Ukraine, reversing Joe Biden’s earlier commitment to robust and sustained support. At the same time, Trump repeated Russian narratives, questioning Zelenskyy’s popularity and calling for elections in Ukraine.
Relations further deteriorated after a public confrontation in the White House, where Trump accused Zelenskyy of being disrespectful. Meanwhile, Russia has made incremental advances, pushing into Ukraine’s northeastern regions and securing stronger positions on the battlefield.
Although Trump has publicly expressed frustration with Putin, telling the media he was “pissed off”, his rhetoric has generally softened. The Kremlin welcomed this change, saying US foreign policy under Trump aligns more closely with its own. Russia has also received support from Washington at two recent United Nations votes.
In Russian towns like Vereya, residents like 20-year-old waitress Alisa view Trump’s actions as positive for their country, though others, like 37-year-old Elena Solodkaya, remain wary of relying on political figures for lasting peace.
Despite some diplomatic posturing, the conflict continues with no end in sight and the human cost mounting.
Published: 21 Apr 2025, 07:43 am IST
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