Moscow citizens skeptical of Trump’s ability to end Ukraine conflict
A member of the Spanish UNIFIL peacekeepers forces stands in front of the rubble of destroyed buildings during a patrol in the southern Lebanese village of Borj El Mlouk, near the border with Israel, on January 7, 2025. (AFP Photo)
As Donald Trump prepares to retake the White House, his promise to quickly end the nearly three-year conflict in Ukraine has been met with widespread doubt on the streets of Moscow.
The U.S. President-elect, set to be inaugurated on Monday, has called for swift negotiations and concessions from both sides to bring an end to the fighting.
However, many Russians remain unconvinced that Trump’s return will alter the trajectory of the war.
“Whether it’s Trump or another politician, nothing will change,” said Igor, a 37-year-old engineer, speaking near the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. “Only one person can change things, and we know who that is,” he added, alluding to Russian President Vladimir Putin. “If he wants it, it will stop.”
While the Kremlin has expressed willingness to engage with Trump on the matter, its conditions for a cease-fire remain firm. Moscow has demanded that Ukraine withdraw its forces from four regions in the east and south, territories Russia has claimed as its own.
Trump’s peace promises weakened by his Greenland, Canada remarks
Trump’s peace overtures have raised alarm in Kyiv, where officials fear that a deal brokered by the incoming administration could heavily favor Moscow’s interests. In Russia, however, there is skepticism about whether Trump’s proposals will meet their expectations.
“I’m afraid Trump is going to impose conditions that don’t suit us. They want a truce, and we want victory,” said Anna Petrova, a 75-year-old pensioner. Petrova dismissed Trump as a “populist,” citing his controversial remarks on annexing Canada and Greenland.
Elia Antonova, 71, echoed Petrova’s doubts, expressing concern that any deal Trump offers would be unacceptable to Moscow. “He’ll hold his line unequivocally, and I think we will of course not agree to it,” she said.
Meanwhile, both sides continue to vie for leverage on the battlefield. Ukraine has intensified strikes on Russian energy and military infrastructure, including attacks deep within Russian territory using Western-supplied weaponry.
Russia, in turn, has advanced across the Donetsk region, taking advantage of reported shortages in Ukrainian manpower and equipment.
Although Trump has emphasized his desire for a rapid resolution, the gap between the two nations’ positions appears substantial. Some in Moscow believe any meaningful progress will take time.
“I don’t think the situation will change radically anytime soon,” said Anton, a 45-year-old employee of a state-run company. “Maybe with time,” he added cautiously.
