Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope on Friday that the ongoing conflict with Russia, now approaching its third anniversary, might reach a faster resolution as Donald Trump assumes the U.S. presidency.

Zelensky shared his optimism in an interview with Suspilne, Ukraine’s public broadcasting company, generating discussions about the potential impact of Trump's presidency on the war's future and prompting a global conversation about the future of the conflict, as National Review reports.

During the interview, Zelensky cited what he described as favorable policies from the incoming U.S. administration under President-elect Trump as a basis for his optimism.

He noted, "With the policies of this team that will now lead the White House, the war will end faster." Zelensky emphasized Ukraine's independence and firm commitment to a just peace, underscoring the importance of sovereignty in any negotiations.

Zelensky confirmed ongoing diplomatic efforts, highlighting discussions with both President-elect Trump and current President Joe Biden, as well as leaders across Europe.

These negotiations aim to navigate a path toward a resolution while ensuring Ukraine's sovereignty is respected. Throughout his campaign, Trump emphasized prioritizing an end to the conflict in Ukraine.

Trump's Campaign Pledge to End the War

Trump declared on numerous occasions during the campaign trail that he could quickly resolve the Ukraine conflict. In a CNN town hall, he vowed to halt the ongoing casualties within a day, stating, "They’re dying, Russians and Ukrainians. I want them to stop dying."

Despite these confident assertions, Trump resists outlining specific details of his proposed peace plan. He has maintained, "I can’t give you those plans because if I give you those plans, I’m not going to be able to use them." This lack of specificity remains a key concern for many, including Zelensky.

In September, Zelensky urged Trump to disclose his strategy publicly, expressing concern about the lack of transparency. He insisted that any plan should mandate the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territories. Without this, Zelensky warned Trump’s vision would fall short of establishing global peace.

Debate Among Trump's Allies on Strategy

Trump's allies are reportedly split over how to approach the conflict. Some advisers are wary of any potential concessions to Russia, while others suggest that Ukraine might have to consider territorial compromises or delay its NATO ambitions. The complexity of these discussions highlights the challenges facing an effective diplomatic solution.

Trump himself underscores his diplomatic connections, boasting a positive relationship with both Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He faults current U.S. President Biden's handling of the conflict, criticizing particularly the provision of free military equipment to Ukraine. Such actions, according to Trump, have not prevented Russia’s aggression.

During a debate held in June, Trump contended that Biden's strategies failed to deter Russia from invading Ukraine. He argued that a respected U.S. president, presumably himself, could have forestalled the initial invasion.

Recent Conversations with Putin

Following his election victory, Trump reached out to Putin, advising against any further escalation of the conflict. This outreach highlights Trump's ongoing efforts to play a mediating role, leveraging his self-described rapport with Putin in hopes of influencing the latter's actions.

Both Trump and Zelensky stand at a crucial junction where diplomacy will be pivotal to crafting any peaceful resolution.

While Zelensky welcomes Trump's election as a promising turn for Ukraine, the road to peace remains fraught with uncertainty and complex political intricacies.

As discussions advance, the international community will be closely watching to see whether Trump's leadership indeed ushers in an end to one of the starkest geopolitical conflicts of recent history.

Ukraine remains steadfast in its pursuit of a comprehensive peace, hoping to emerge sovereign and whole from the shadows of war.