In a rare three-way call, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky connected with President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk, setting off a new chapter in Ukraine’s battle for support against Russia. The 25-minute conversation reportedly left Zelensky hopeful, as Trump pledged ongoing U.S. backing while signaling a cautious shift towards “diplomacy” to end the war.
While Musk’s role included confirming continued Starlink support for Ukraine, Trump reassured Zelensky he wouldn’t abandon the country, stating, “I promise you will be happy with me.” The conversation has likely frustrated Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has kept a close eye on Trump’s potential for changing the direction of U.S. involvement in Ukraine.
Sources close to the Ukrainian government suggest that Trump’s plan could involve a “freeze” of the conflict, enforcing a demilitarized zone along current front lines while keeping Ukraine out of NATO for at least two decades. Though American troops wouldn’t be involved directly, the U.S. would continue supplying Ukraine with defensive aid. Trump’s proposed approach reflects his campaign promise to resolve the war within days of assuming office, though Putin’s spokesperson dismissed the timeline as “overexaggeration.”
Zelensky’s tweet following the call reinforced Ukraine’s need for “strong and unwavering U.S. leadership” and a “just peace.” For now, Zelensky seems reassured, but whether Trump’s vision aligns with Ukraine’s long-term goals remains a looming question as the nation braces for what comes next.
