Expert warns Trump could force Ukraine toward a negotiated end
Russia specialist Gerhard Mangott told Armin Wolf that Donald Trump’s pressure on Kyiv may push the Ukrainian president to seek a settlement, even as the U.S. scales back aid.
During a program hosted by Armin Wolf, Russia expert Gerhard Mangott examined whether Donald Trump is truly abandoning Ukraine. Mangott noted that Trump’s erratic behavior is translating into heightened attacks on both Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, whom he described as adopting a new, harsher tone. He explained that while the United States is currently sending diplomatic pressure signals, Trump could end direct arms aid and block European transfers of American weapons, leaving Kyiv unable to replace its firepower.
Mangott attributed Trump’s pivot toward Russia and China to his admiration for autocratic leaders and the pursuit of massive energy-investment profits. He warned that a forthcoming summit of the United States, Russia and China could shape the war’s conclusion without Ukraine or Europe at the table, raising doubts about the feasibility of a lasting peace under such conditions.
Why it matters
Trump's stance could reshape U.S. support for Ukraine and influence the war's trajectory.
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