Title: Ukrainian Expert: Putin Only Understands Strength as Trump‘s Inauguration Approaches
Article:
As the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump looms on January 20, Ukrainian experts are assessing the potential impact on the ongoing conflict with Russia. According to General Igor Romanenko, a retired deputy chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Russia will not scale back its military activities in Ukraine despite the change in U.S. leadership.
Speaking to OBOZ.UA, Romanenko suggested that Russia’s military actions in Eastern Ukraine will likely shift in response to Trump’s policies. "Putin has already snubbed Trump’s attempts to end the war. It’s clear that Putin respects only strength, and Trump should learn from Reagan’s playbook," said Romanenko, implying that a tough stance on Russia and robust support for Ukraine are essential.
With just weeks remaining until the inauguration, Romanenko emphasized the importance of the remaining time for the current U.S. administration. The "RAMSTEIN" format, a key diplomatic-philosophical initiative of the Biden administration, will likely be passed on to the European leaders, he noted, with both French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak taking strong stances.
Reflecting on Trump’s previous promises to resolve the conflict within 24 hours of his election, Romanenko expressed skepticism about a quick turnaround. "While Trump may seek a swift solution, the preparation of a new administration’s foreign policy takes time," he cautioned.
Former Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S., Valeriy Chaly, clarified Trump’s earlier statement that the war in Ukraine could be ended within six months. Chaly emphasized that the remark was not about setting a timeframe for the conflict’s resolution but rather about potential negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
