Trump’s ‘Face-Saving Plan’ for Ukraine and Russia

Al-Masry Al-Youm, Egypt, April 11

“They want to save face and find an exit strategy.” This was the claim made by former US President Donald Trump, who boasted his ability to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine within 24 hours if elected, even before assuming office. Trump argues that both parties are in a bind and are seeking a way out. According to a recent report in The Washington Post, Trump’s proposed solution would involve pressuring Ukraine to relinquish some territory. Trump envisions a resolution that hinges on Ukraine ceding Crimea and the Donbas border region to Russia. Critics of this approach argue that Trump’s plan would essentially reward Russian President Vladimir Putin and legitimize the forcible violation of internationally recognized borders. This approach stands in stark contrast to President Biden’s strategy, which is centered on curbing Russian aggression and providing military support to Ukraine. The purported framework of Trump’s peace plan, as described by one of his aides, involves Ukraine giving up territory, thereby limiting NATO expansion and enticing Putin to reduce his reliance on China. The belief is that individuals in certain parts of Ukraine would be willing to become part of Russia. However, this notion has faced pushback, with many parties criticizing the idea of driving a wedge between Russia and China, with some going as far as labeling it as “foolish.” Critics argue that any concessions made to Russia would come at the expense of other American interests. Granting Russian control over parts of Ukraine could also expand Putin’s autocracy following the largest land conflict in Europe since World War II. Trump’s plan diverges significantly from Biden’s approach, who warned in his State of the Union address that Putin “is invading Ukraine and sowing chaos across Europe and beyond,” emphasizing that Ukraine needs defense. Biden outlined a strategy to bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities this year, positioning it for a stronger defense in the following year. However, US assistance is now at risk as House Speaker Mike Johnson faces opposition from Republican hard-liners who oppose additional funding and are calling for his removal. Trump is pressuring congressional Republicans to resist further US support for the Ukrainian war effort, with his potential return to the White House poised to amplify his sway over the decision. European allies are preparing to have European military industries step in to substitute a considerable portion of the current American aid given to Kyiv. Nevertheless, Ukraine’s ability to continue fighting could be compromised if Trump succeeds in halting further US assistance. —Abdel Latif El-Menawy (translated by Asaf Zilberfarb)