Russia has expressed its openness to hearing President-elect Donald Trump’s proposals for ending the war, according to a Russian official. The situation escalated when a Russian drone killed one person and wounded 13 in Odesa, Ukraine. The European Union foreign policy chief held talks in Kyiv following the change in U.S. leadership.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov mentioned that Moscow and Washington were in communication through “closed channels” regarding Ukraine. He did not specify if this communication was with the current administration or with Trump and his incoming team. Ryabkov stated that Russia is willing to listen to Trump’s ideas for Ukraine as long as they focus on moving towards a peaceful resolution.
In Kyiv, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed Ukraine’s readiness to collaborate with the Trump administration. He highlighted President Zelenskyy’s positive interaction with President Trump and the ongoing efforts to establish communication between the two teams. Sybiha emphasized the importance of working towards a just peace in the region.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell reiterated the European Union’s support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. He called for faster deliveries of Western weapons to Ukraine and urged allies to lift restrictions on the country’s use of these weapons. The situation in Odesa saw damage to buildings and infrastructure caused by a Russian drone, with additional drones being shot down or lost in various Ukrainian regions.
The escalating conflict has raised concerns about the level of support Ukraine can expect from the new U.S. administration. Trump’s past comments on aid to Ukraine and his relationship with Russian President Putin have caused uncertainty. Both Russia and Ukraine have reported drone-related incidents and aerial campaigns, highlighting the need for international assistance in the region.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community will be closely watching for developments in Ukraine and how different countries, including the U.S., respond to the conflict. The quest for peace remains a priority for all parties involved, and cooperation will be key in finding a sustainable solution to the ongoing war in the region.
