Asger Risom
U.S. vice president defends peace efforts and warns of escalating dangers if fighting continues
The war in Ukraine remains a central issue in global politics, with growing concerns about the long-term consequences of a prolonged conflict.
Recent comments by U.S. Vice President JD Vance underline a stark reassessment of Ukraine’s prospects and a push for urgent peace talks.
Doubts About Ukraine’s Victory
In a podcast interview, JD Vance declared that Ukraine would not achieve a military victory over Russia, defending the Trump administration’s efforts to negotiate a ceasefire.
As reported by Digi24, Vance stressed that while Washington continues to pressure both sides for a settlement, a successful outcome is not guaranteed.
“There is an illusion promoted in the media that if the war continues for a few more years, Russia will collapse, Ukraine will regain its territories, and everything will return to pre-war conditions. This is not the reality we live in,” Vance stated.
Warning of Nuclear Risks
Vance warned that prolonging the conflict increases the risk of social collapse in both Ukraine and Russia, massive loss of life, and a significant chance of nuclear escalation. He argued that stopping the war must be a priority, aligning with the Trump administration’s policy to end the conflict swiftly.
Although the United States has proposed a peace plan requiring significant concessions from Ukraine—such as recognizing Russia’s annexation of Crimea—Ukrainian and European officials have countered with an alternative plan.
Their proposal involves U.S. security guarantees without preemptive territorial concessions before implementing a full ceasefire.
Complex Negotiations Ahead
Meanwhile, Russia has maintained maximalist demands, insisting on international recognition of its control over Crimea and four other Ukrainian regions before any negotiations can move forward.
Ukraine has already accepted a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire and has repeatedly called for an unconditional Russian truce.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reaffirmed this stance during his face-to-face meeting with Donald Trump at the Vatican on April 26, highlighting the complexities that continue to challenge any move toward a durable peace.