Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence on Friday that the war with Russia could end more quickly under the incoming Trump administration, sparking widespread debate over what such a scenario might entail for Ukraine and the global geopolitical landscape.

Speaking on Ukrainian public radio, Zelensky addressed the ongoing difficulties his country faces in countering Russian forces, which have recently intensified offensives in eastern and southeastern Ukraine. Despite mounting pressure on the battlefield, Zelensky suggested that the new U.S. administration’s policies could bring the conflict to a faster conclusion.

“This is their approach, their promise to their society, and it is also very important to them,” Zelensky said, referring to President-elect Donald Trump’s stated determination to resolve the conflict. Trump has repeatedly claimed he could end the war in “one day,” though he has not provided specifics on how he would achieve this.

Trump’s Controversial Stance

Trump, who secured a second term earlier this month, has often criticized continued U.S. support for Ukraine and questioned its strategic importance. His running mate, JD Vance, echoed these sentiments during the campaign, raising doubts about the future of American military and financial aid to Kyiv.

Trump has also praised Russian President Vladimir Putin in the past, describing him as a strong leader, and criticized Zelensky for his handling of U.S.-Ukraine relations. Critics argue that a Trump-led U.S. government might pressure Ukraine into a peace deal heavily skewed in Moscow’s favor, potentially requiring territorial concessions.

War Intensifies on the Ground

Meanwhile, the situation in Ukraine’s eastern regions remains dire. Russian forces have reportedly captured two additional settlements in the Donetsk region and are making steady gains near Kurakhove. Zelensky acknowledged the “slow but steady” Russian advance and lamented delays in receiving promised Western weapons, which he said had been expected for over a year.

“These are terrible losses,” he said, highlighting that Russian forces are reportedly losing up to 2,000 men daily in their offensive.

In the south, Moscow is preparing a counteroffensive in the Kursk region, Ukraine’s only significant military success this year.

International Reactions

Zelensky’s comments come as G7 leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine during a meeting on Saturday. In a joint statement, the group emphasized their commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and pledged ongoing military and financial assistance.

“We stand in solidarity, contributing to [Ukraine’s] fight for sovereignty, freedom, independence, territorial integrity, and its reconstruction,” the statement read.

However, Zelensky criticized a recent phone call between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing it as a “Pandora’s box” that undermines efforts to isolate Moscow.

A Fraught Path Ahead

As Ukraine braces for the potential policy shifts under Trump, questions linger over what a faster end to the war might mean for the embattled nation. Experts warn that reduced U.S. support could force Kyiv to make painful compromises, jeopardizing its sovereignty and emboldening Russia.

For now, Zelensky remains hopeful that diplomatic solutions will emerge. “We must do everything to ensure that the war ends next year through diplomatic means,” he said.

As Trump prepares to take office, the world watches closely to see whether his approach will bring peace or further complicate an already volatile conflict.