Zelensky and Trump: How Hope for an End to the War in Ukraine Grows
On Wednesday, May 8, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone conversation with his American counterpart, former President Donald Trump. The main topic of the discussion was the situation in Ukraine, prospects for ending hostilities, and mutual support during this difficult period for both nations. Both leaders also congratulated each other on Victory Day, traditionally celebrated on May 9, and expressed their joy regarding the Verkhovna Rada’s ratification of the economic partnership agreement aimed at aligning and deepening cooperation between the countries. According to sources who provided information via Zelensky’s Telegram channel, the heads of state discussed further diplomatic and military steps necessary to achieve peace in Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his desire and eagerness to bring the conflict to an end, expressing support for Ukraine in its efforts to conclude the war. The discussion touched on specific initiatives, including the possibility of a 30-day ceasefire, which, according to the Ukrainian leader, Ukraine is ready to initiate as early as today. He also mentioned that Ukraine is awaiting a response from Russia regarding this proposal. At the same time, Zelensky stressed that to achieve results, Kyiv is prepared for any negotiation format, but this is only possible if Moscow demonstrates serious intentions to end the war. In his view, Russia must take the first step towards peace — starting with a complete and unconditional ceasefire. In his speech, Zelensky added that Trump confirmed his position and willingness to help Ukraine overcome the challenges caused by the war. They agreed that efforts should be directed toward finding ways for the quickest and most effective cessation of hostilities to prevent humanitarian and economic collapse. Beyond military issues, the leaders also congratulated the peoples of Ukraine and Russia on Victory Day over Nazism in World War II, a day of particular symbolic significance for Ukraine. The background to this telecommunication was quite long — even before the conversation, Trump indicated his intention to discuss the “economic partnership” agreement with Zelensky on May 8, which was ratified by Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada a few days earlier. This served as another signal to activate diplomatic contacts that could either hinder or accelerate the process of ending the war. Therefore, this conversation became an important step in the context of diplomatic settlement and providing international support to Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and independence. Although combat actions are still ongoing and no breakthroughs in peaceful resolution have been made, Trump’s words about the desire to end the war, as well as Zelensky’s openness to diplomatic efforts, create an optimistic mood and provide grounds to hope for a positive development in the near future.