The Trump team is not playing around and definitely not submitting to Putin.
On Thursday, Vice President JD Vance made a bold statement regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, signaling that the United States could take a stronger stance against Russia if President Vladimir Putin refuses to negotiate a peace settlement. Vance emphasized that the US has both economic and military tools at its disposal to pressure the Kremlin into ending its nearly three-year invasion of Ukraine.
Vance outlined that sanctions and military options are “on the table” as potential methods of leverage should Putin continue his aggressive actions. This statement marks a sharp contrast with recent comments by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who, in a meeting with Ukrainian allies, ruled out the possibility of sending American troops into Ukraine. Hegseth stressed that any long-term security guarantees for Ukraine should be upheld by European and other non-American forces.
However, Vance’s remarks reveal a more assertive approach. He suggested that the US could consider sending troops if Russia refuses to engage in sincere negotiations. These comments come just before a significant meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and a US delegation, including Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and special envoy Keith Kellogg, at the Munich Security Conference in Germany. The focus of the meeting is expected to be on reaching a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Vance emphasized that any peace deal would require Ukraine to maintain its sovereignty, but he stopped short of specifying how much of Ukraine’s territory currently occupied by Russian forces would be allowed to remain under Kremlin control. He suggested that these specifics would be addressed during the peace talks.
Vance also pointed to President Trump’s role in shaping the negotiation process, noting that Trump is committed to keeping all options open and will push for the best possible outcome for the United States and its allies. Trump’s willingness to negotiate directly with Putin, including discussions about Ukraine’s future, sets the stage for what could be a pivotal moment in ending the war.
Ultimately, Vance’s comments signal a strong stance by the US in support of Ukraine, while also highlighting the flexibility needed in diplomacy to bring about a resolution. The Biden administration’s hesitancy contrasts with the more direct approach that Vance and Trump are proposing, positioning them as advocates for a more proactive and decisive role in resolving the crisis.