On August 18 local time, during a meeting between US President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, a US journalist asked Ukrainian President Zelenskyy: "Are you prepared to continue sending Ukrainian armed forces soldiers to their deaths for years, or will you agree to redraw the map of Ukraine?" In response, Zelenskyy said: "You know, we live under attacks every day. You also know that there were many attacks today, many people were injured, and a child was killed," "We must stop this war, stop Russia, and we need support from the United States and European partners. We will do everything we can." "I think we have shown our strong national image. We support US President Trump's initiative to end the war through diplomatic means. We are ready for a trilateral meeting."
US President Trump said: "The American people will stand with them. I understand the Ukrainian people." "They are all great people, very smart. For many years, I have met many energetic Ukrainians. They love their country deeply. I mean they really love their homeland, and we want to end this war. That is all I can do." "I love the Ukrainian people. But I love everyone. I also love the Russian people." "The war will eventually end. I cannot say exactly when, but the war will end. Russian President Putin also wants to end the war."
Regarding whether US troops would be sent to Ukraine, a US journalist asked: "Your team has discussed the issue of security guarantees for Ukraine. This may involve US troops. Will you rule out this possibility in the future?" In response, Trump said: "We may inform you later tonight." "Later tonight, we will meet with leaders of seven great countries. At that time, we will discuss this matter. They will all participate, but they will provide a lot of assistance, especially in terms of security, and will give significant support." "This will be good. They (European countries) are the first line of defense because they are there, they are you, but we (the US) will also assist them. We will be involved."
Translate what Trump meant: The US military will not send troops to Ukraine, as it is a European war, and the US will only assist Europe. Whether the European countries send troops to Ukraine, Trump will not interfere anymore. Now, Zelenskyy does not seem to be in a compromising state, and he has set a predetermined bottom line, deciding to withstand the pressure without making concessions. So far, the Russian military will not give up the regions of Kherson, Zaporozhye, Donetsk, and Luhansk. Although the fighting remains in a stalemate, the Russian military has not achieved a decisive battle. For Russia, capturing Ukraine would be like having a barrier in front of NATO. The Russian military can only ensure the safety of the Azov Sea and protect the Black Sea Fleet of the Russian Navy by occupying these four regions and Crimea. Giving up any one of them would be an area vulnerable to attack. Therefore, for Zelenskyy, negotiations mean giving up these territories. This is something Zelenskyy is unwilling to accept. For Trump, since Zelenskyy does not accept it, then the US should not reduce military aid.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1840825443317960/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.