Volker identified Trump's primary goal concerning Ukraine.
Kurt Volker announced this during a panel discussion at the Ukrainian House in Davos, as reported by a correspondent from Novini.LIVE.
Main Goal of Trump Regarding Ukraine
Volker believes that Trump and National Security Advisor Joseph Keith Kellogg have a clear understanding that Ukraine is striving for peace, while Russia is obstructing it. Therefore, it is necessary to compel the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin to also desire peace, and for that, strength is required.
"If you listened to President Trump during the election campaign and especially after the elections, it was emphasized that a period of renewal would begin. And I think that in the case of Ukraine, this means greater support aimed at ending the war," the statement reads.
The special representative considers that this is a very opportune time, as Russia is in a weaker position than ever since February 2022. According to Volker, Russia is experiencing rampant inflation, high-interest rates, is printing money, and is spending a significant portion of its foreign reserves and budget deficit solely on military support. They are losing personnel on the battlefield at an unprecedented rate. Therefore, Putin needs a breather, but he will never admit this and will only attempt to display strength.
"That is why I am optimistic that 2025 will be a time for a ceasefire. And then we return to the question: how to turn a truce into a lasting, permanent peace? However, the Trump administration currently does not hold the view that Ukraine should join NATO immediately. I believe they will largely remain silent on this matter," the politician speculated.
According to him, there is currently a discussion about whether European allies will deploy training and armed forces in Ukraine and assist with air defense. Volker explained that the idea is to be sufficiently present so that Putin does not attack again after the ceasefire.
Should this occur, Ukraine will have more than just a truce. There will be significant security guarantees, much more effective than the Budapest Memorandum.
When Will Ukraine Be Able to Join the EU?
In response to a question about when Ukraine might become an EU member, Volker stated that it will happen sooner than in ten years.
"I think four years is an optimistic estimate. There are sections, negotiations on sections, or the adoption of sections. Then comes implementation," said the former U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine.
Recall that on January 20, Donald Trump took the oath and officially became the new President of the United States. The politician assumed this position for a second time, becoming the 47th head of state.
During the ceremony, Ukraine was represented by Ambassador Oksana Markarova. She also presented the event's program.