In a stunning move signaling a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy, Mike Waltz, the incoming National Security Advisor for President-elect Donald Trump, met with the Biden administration on Sunday to hammer out groundwork for addressing the war in Ukraine. Waltz’s mission? To fast-track plans for peace talks as the Trump team gears up to take office in January.
Europe on edge: Trump’s Ukraine policy sparks uncertainty
Since Trump’s victory on November 5, European leaders have expressed deep concerns over the United States potentially aligning more closely with Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict. Trump’s vocal skepticism toward Biden’s extensive financial and military support for Kyiv has only added to these fears.
Speaking to Fox News, Waltz outlined the Trump administration’s vision. “President Trump has been very clear about the need to end this conflict. What we need to discuss is who will be at the table, whether it’s an agreement or an armistice, how to bring both parties together, and the framework for a resolution,” he said.
Waltz emphasized the urgency of action, stating, “We will work with this administration until January and continue from there.” His remarks suggest a transitional collaboration aimed at bridging the gap between the outgoing and incoming administrations on this critical issue.
Trump team critiques Biden’s approach
Trump’s circle has not held back criticism of Biden’s handling of the war. One focal point of contention is the administration’s decision to greenlight Ukraine’s use of long-range U.S.-made missiles against Russian territory. Waltz underscored Trump’s concerns about the escalating conflict, warning against actions that might further inflame tensions.
Throughout his campaign, Trump repeatedly questioned the billions of dollars the Biden administration has funneled into Ukraine since the war began. While he has not offered specific alternatives, Trump has vowed to end the war, presenting himself as a dealmaker capable of brokering peace.
A wider vision: Trump eyes Middle East stability
Beyond Ukraine, Waltz hinted at broader ambitions for Trump’s foreign policy. He called for a peace deal in the Middle East that would bring “real stability” to the region. The statement signals a return to Trump’s transactional approach to diplomacy, emphasizing negotiated outcomes over prolonged interventions.
A gamble or a game-changer?
The Trump administration’s early focus on diplomacy represents a stark departure from Biden’s steadfast support of Ukraine. Whether this strategy will bring an end to the conflict or create new divisions among Western allies remains to be seen. Critics argue that Trump’s willingness to engage Russia could weaken Ukraine’s position, while supporters believe his approach could finally bring much-needed resolution to a devastating war.
As January approaches, all eyes are on Trump’s team to see if their ambitious plans for Ukraine—and the world—will lead to peace or plunge global politics into further uncertainty. One thing is clear: Trump’s return to the White House is poised to shake up the international stage.