With looming discussions between U.S. President Trump and Russian President Putin, Ukrainians express disappointment over their exclusion from talks that may determine the fate of contested territories. Amid war fatigue and distrust toward Russia, various perspectives emerge on land concessions, security guarantees, and the pressing need for peace.
Ukrainians Grapple with Uncertainty Ahead of High-Stakes Talks
Ukrainians Grapple with Uncertainty Ahead of High-Stakes Talks
As the world watches negotiations between Trump and Putin, Ukrainians find themselves sidelined without a voice in discussions that could affect their homeland.
As U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin prepare for crucial negotiations in Alaska, many Ukrainians are left feeling anxious and sidelined. With no invitation extended to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, citizens express worry about potential decisions regarding their homeland's future.
Trump hinted earlier this week that the subject of "land swaps" could feature in discussions, inciting fear among Ukrainians that their territories could face surrender to Russia. Tetyana Bessonova, a 30-year-old resident from Pokrovsk—one of the cities at risk—articulated her anguish over the uncertainty: “These decisions might mean I could never go home again.”
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that no territorial agreements would be set without Ukraine's consent, providing a glimmer of hope to those concerned. However, many Ukrainians remain skeptical of Trump's erratic decision-making and fear he could concede to Russia's demands. "Knowing Trump, he can change his opinion very quickly. There is great danger in that for us," responded Oleksandr Merezhko, a Ukrainian Member of Parliament.
In terms of public sentiment, while polls show 54% of Ukrainians support some form of land compromise to expedite peace, almost 75% firmly oppose formal cession of any territory to Russia. Luibov Nazarenko, a 70-year-old retiree, emphasized the need for peace, regardless of the cost: “I just don't want people to die... We must stop this now.”
Amid the uncertainty, Ukrainians are preparing for tough choices concerning their future. As negotiations loom, many turn to faith for solace. In Kyiv's St. Michael's Monastery, priest Oleksandr Beskrovniy led a prayer service, calling the talks a “great injustice.” He reiterated the importance of prioritizing the Ukrainian people over land lost.
As the day of the talks unfolds, the stakes remain high for both the leaders meeting in Alaska and for those affected on the ground in Ukraine, where the pain of conflict continues to resonate deeply.
