Why the US may be abandoning Ukraine as Trump shifts pressure toward Kyiv

Trump’s policy moves

Trump has criticized Zelenskyy and recently said someone else might need to lead negotiations. Earlier, he delayed planned tariffs and sanctions on Russia, then announced the United States would again allow Russian diesel imports.

Trump has also pressed Ukraine to stop attacking Russian oil refineries and to negotiate an end to the war. The account links his focus on refinery strikes to concern about fuel prices for American voters ahead of next month’s midterm elections.

Pressure reaches Ukraine

The United States has considerable influence over Ukraine, but pressure alone may not resolve the conflict. Trump could push Zelenskyy toward a peace agreement without assurances that Russia would respect it.

Risks beyond the battlefield

Russian forces continue to launch drone and missile attacks, killing hundreds of civilians in September and leaving hundreds of thousands without power. UN monitors said the first two weeks of October were among the deadliest periods for civilians since 2022.

Without credible guarantees, Russia could regroup and invade again, potentially taking more Ukrainian territory. A stronger Russia could also threaten other European countries, while US allies might seek partners they consider more dependable.