**Towards a turning point: Zelensky at the heart of military and diplomatic negotiations before Trump’s arrival**
The coming months promise to be crucial for Ukraine, both on the front lines of the fighting and behind the scenes of international diplomacy. The meeting scheduled for January 9 at Ramstein, a strategic American air base, symbolizes not only the continuity of international support for Ukraine, but also the turbulence to be anticipated with the imminent election of Donald Trump. Indeed, the announcement of this meeting within the “contact group” of kyiv’s partners could be more than just a routine meeting: it could be the catalyst for a New Strategy in response to a rapidly changing global dynamic.
### Limited but essential aid
It is undeniable that American military aid has been a pillar for Ukraine in its fight against the Russian invasion, with a contribution exceeding $65 billion since the beginning of the war. Yet despite this colossal investment, kyiv finds itself in a precarious situation. The recent loss of Kurakhove, a key region, underscores that Ukraine’s reinforcement resources, while substantial, remain inferior to those of its aggressor. Russian forces continue to assault Ukrainian lines, advancing inexorably into occupied territory.
### The Trump Factor: A Challenge or an Opportunity?
Donald Trump’s arrival on the scene after his inauguration on January 20 raises fears of American disengagement, but it could also open up new perspectives. Trump’s often unpredictable attitude could offer a new approach to exploiting the diplomatic framework. Indeed, the dichotomy between Trump’s promise to end the conflict in “24 hours” and his previous policies sometimes favorable to Putin presents a potentially destabilizing and delicate position.
Historical insights show that changes in leadership can often reorient foreign policies. When the president took office in 2017, Ukraine and its European allies faced similar uncertainties, which had led to an intensification of discussions around military aid. In this context, Zelensky’s media star power could be an asset in the diplomatic arsenal to turn the tide against potential pressure from a Trump who is open to negotiation.
### At the crossroads: Territorial concessions under debate
Emmanuel Macron’s statement calling for “realistic discussions” on territorial issues resonates like a distant echo in the debate over Ukrainian national identity. At the same time, Poland, a traditionally staunch ally of Ukraine, is opening the door to territorial concessions, which could call into question the principles of territorial integrity that have long been cornerstones of Ukrainian foreign policy.
Recall that Crimea, annexed in 2014, has left deep-seated scars. Returning to the negotiating table may require confronting the fear of the return of the ghost of the Munich Compromise of 1938, where territorial concessions were made in the name of peace but ultimately led to full-scale confrontation.
### Prospects for Peace: The Indispensable Role of International Engagement
As the dynamics on the ground evolve, it is imperative for Ukraine to maintain an active conversation at the international level. Some voices are raising the alarm that any US withdrawal from engagement with kyiv would not only be a setback for Ukraine, but also for the world order established since World War II. The escalating tensions in Ukraine could be a backdrop for other nations seeking to test the resilience of the partnerships that Washington has supported for decades.
The Ramstein meeting will also serve as a test of the strength of international alliances. The confirmed presence of influential military and political leaders like Kaja Kallas and Mark Rutte promises to reaffirm solidarity with Ukraine, while paying implicit tribute to Zelensky’s efforts to navigate uncertain times.
### Conclusion: A Global Dilemma at Play
As the situation unfolds, the path ahead for Ukraine may well hinge on a series of strategic choices at the international level. The alliances Ukraine has built so far still appear strong, but the handover from the Biden to the Trump administration could expose cracks. The time has come not just to defend territorial integrity, but to assert an adaptive capacity and resilience to support a quest for lasting peace. The coming months will be crucial to determine whether Kyiv’s voice can resonate above the din of guns in an increasingly polarized world.