What scenarios are the Trump transition team considering to end the war in Ukraine?

The incoming National Security Advisor to US President-Elect Donald Trump, Mike Waltz, is studying several options for ending the war between Russia and Ukraine. Among them are proposals from General Keith Kellogg, whom Trump appointed as special representative for the war in Ukraine.

Currently, the Trump administration is seeking a quick ceasefire. This would temporarily freeze the conflict and create conditions that would allow negotiations between the parties. It is anticipated that Ukraine’s European allies and NATO will be called on to contribute more financially toward Ukraine’s support. Kellogg’s scenario provides for military assistance to Ukraine on the condition that it participates in peace talks, and Ukraine’s accession to NATO will be postponed indefinitely to encourage Moscow to dialogue.

Another proposal includes the creation of “autonomous regions” in Ukraine. The possibility of Russia retaining control over the occupied territories in exchange for Ukraine’s accession to NATO is also being discussed.

Sebastian Gorka, incoming Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism, emphasized that Trump is ready to issue an ultimatum to Putin: “Either you start negotiations, or the aid that has been provided to Ukraine will seem like a trifle compared to what will happen next.”