President-elect Donald Trump is set to make a significant move in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia: he plans to appoint a special envoy to lead negotiations aimed at achieving peace. According to multiple sources familiar with the matter, this individual will be a high-ranking figure with a reputation for credibility, tasked with finding a resolution and securing a peace settlement.
This appointment comes as Trump continues to assemble his cabinet and advisors at a rapid pace. While few details about the peace plan have been released, there are strong indications that Trump is serious about brokering a resolution. The role of the special envoy is expected to be a prominent one, mirroring the efforts of Kurt Volker, who served as the special representative to Ukrainian negotiations on a volunteer basis between 2017 and 2019.
However, the proposed peace plan has sparked controversy. Some of Trump’s advisors are reportedly pushing for a ceasefire agreement that would freeze the frontlines and allow Russia to keep control of the territories it has illegally seized. This would mean Russia would retain approximately 20% of Ukraine. The plan also proposes that Ukraine should agree not to pursue NATO membership for 20 years, a stipulation that critics argue would give in to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s demands.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, a report by The Washington Post suggests that Trump had a conversation with Putin, during which he urged the Russian leader not to escalate the war. However, Trump’s transition team has not confirmed or denied this communication.
The potential appointment of a Ukrainian peace envoy is a significant development in the ongoing conflict, with the potential to reshape the geopolitical landscape. It remains to be seen how the proposed peace plan will be received by both Ukraine and Russia, and how effectively Trump will be able to navigate the complex web of international relations surrounding this conflict.
