Trump's Ultimatum Leaves Ukrainians Skeptical of Peace Efforts

Despite promises of military support, many Ukrainians feel Trump's ultimatum allows Russia to continue its aggressive actions without accountability.

Ukrainians are feeling the strain of prolonged conflict as recent weeks have seen a surge in Russian drone and missile assaults on the capital, Kyiv. Residents commonly remark, “It was a long night,” underscoring the emotional and physical toll of ongoing air raid sirens and bombings. As tensions rise, U.S. President Donald Trump's proposal to grant Russia 50 days to agree to a ceasefire before facing “very severe tariffs” has sparked dissatisfaction among Ukrainians.

Kyiv Mayor Vitaly Klitschko voiced concern while appearing on German television: “Why such a delay?" He noted that the intensity of Russian attacks has escalated, potentially resulting in additional casualties during the ultimatum period. President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed appreciation for Trump’s commitment to furnish Ukraine with advanced weaponry through NATO allies. This military support could, if enacted, include measures aimed at punishing nations that continue to purchase Russian oil.

Ukrainian MP Kira Rudik labeled Trump's plan as “bittersweet,” stressing that the ultimatum could allow Putin another window to intensify his aggressive tactics. “It is very hard and very personal for us because we don’t know if some of us will survive for these 50 days,” she lamented. UN reports noted that over 230 civilians were killed last month, marking the highest civilian casualties in three years amid increasing Russian assaults.

While Trump plans to dispatch weaponry, including Patriot air defense systems, to bolster Ukraine's defenses, optimism remains cautious. Rudik pointed out, “There hasn’t been a single fact that would prove Russia wants to stop the war,” adding that Ukraine is ready for an unconditional ceasefire. In a response to Trump’s actions, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov cautioned that such announcements would not be viewed as a step toward peace by Ukraine but rather as a signal for an ongoing conflict.

On the streets of Kyiv, skepticism persists regarding Trump's intentions. Local residents Yuliia and Alisa shared their doubts, with Yuliia questioning whether the U.S. support truly aids Ukraine or is merely an extension of Trump's personal ambitions. Alisa expressed that the past months have shown little change regardless of Trump's statements or actions.

Conversely, some residents, including Nina, remain hopeful that additional weapons from the U.S. and NATO funding could hasten the war's conclusion. She noted the detrimental impact of Russian alliances with nations like North Korea and China on the conflict's outcome. Artem, whose father is currently serving in the Ukrainian army, expressed hope for peace and the safe return of soldiers, saying, “People say a lot, let’s see how it goes.”

As the conflict continues and the uncertainty looms, Kyiv is filled with poignant reminders of lives lost, painted across photographs of fallen soldiers displayed around the city, reinforcing the gravity of the situation.