Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines of the country’s east expressed hopes for the next U.S. president, even as they were only vaguely aware of Donald Trump’s victory. The soldiers in the artillery battery, who fire on Russian forces daily, rely on American support for their fight against the invasion. They desire an increase in weapons and guns to aid in their victory, regardless of who holds the presidency, as long as support is not cut off.
Under Trump’s administration, the United States first sent weapons to Ukraine in 2017, including Javelin anti-tank missiles crucial for Ukraine’s defense against Russia. However, Trump has been critical of U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts and has questioned American backing of Ukraine. Despite this, Ukrainian soldiers like Mozart, unit commander, and his team continue to hold the line against Russian forces and hope for continued American support.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has expressed hopes for Trump to uphold the ‘peace through strength’ approach in global affairs to combat Russian aggression against Ukraine. Zelenskyy and Trump have discussed ending the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with Trump claiming he could reach a peace deal quickly if elected. However, concerns have been raised about the terms of any negotiations overseen by Trump, especially with his ambivalence towards Ukraine’s position.
Local residents in Kyiv have mixed feelings about the impact of the U.S. election on Ukraine’s future. While some, like 18-year-old Viktoriia Zubrytska, expect Ukraine to make concessions under a Trump presidency, others prefer certainty over the false hope offered by the Biden administration. The sentiment is divided among voters, with a majority of Harris supporters favoring continued aid to Ukraine, while a smaller percentage of Trump supporters do.
NATO allies, France and Germany, are closely monitoring the U.S. election results, with a focus on Ukraine’s defense against Russia. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has praised Trump for promoting defense spending within the alliance, citing the need for strength against an aggressive Russia. The Kremlin in Moscow views the U.S. as unfriendly due to its support for Ukraine and claims of involvement in the conflict, yet acknowledges Trump’s promise to swiftly end the war if elected.
As the world watches the impact of the U.S. election on Ukraine and the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines remain steadfast in their mission as a shield between Europe and Russia. Despite uncertainties surrounding American support under a new president, the soldiers maintain their resolve to defend their country and hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict that has plagued their region for years.
