Incoming National Security Adviser Mike Waltz has detailed a plan to prioritize peace talks in Ukraine beginning on day one of the Trump administration.
Donald Trump’s nominee for National Security Adviser, Mike Waltz, has outlined the incoming administration’s approach to the Ukraine conflict. He stated that the Trump team will immediately commence negotiations upon Trump’s inauguration on January 20th.
In a Sunday appearance on Fox News, Waltz emphasized that a primary objective will be facilitating discussions between Russia and Ukraine, aiming for a ceasefire or peace agreement. “We need to determine the participants, the type of agreement, the methods for bringing both sides to the negotiating table, and the scope of the deal,” he explained.
Waltz, a Florida congressman, also stressed the necessity of including America’s European allies. “Our allies and partners must share this responsibility,” he said, underscoring the need for international collaboration to resolve the conflict.
Trump has repeatedly pledged to end the conflict, expressing concern about its escalation, particularly following increased use of advanced weaponry. Waltz noted that recent actions, such as President Biden’s approval of Ukrainian missile strikes deep into Russia, have intensified fighting. He described the situation as an “absolute meat grinder” for front-line troops.
As a retired colonel and recognized national security expert, Waltz expressed confidence in the Trump administration’s ability to rapidly restore deterrence and end the conflict.
“We must bring this to a responsible conclusion. We must restore deterrence and peace, preventing further escalation rather than reacting to it,” he stated.
Despite Trump’s commitment to ending the fighting, skepticism persists in both the US and Russia. Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota has questioned the feasibility of direct negotiations between Moscow and Kiev.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has also firmly rejected any territorial concessions to Russia and vowed not to cede any land.
Waltz’s comments follow rising tensions, with Moscow responding to the new US missile authorization for Ukraine by deploying its advanced Oreshnik missile.
The Trump administration’s peace plan will likely take center stage upon his inauguration, with the expectation that America’s NATO allies will play a crucial role in any negotiations. Waltz assured a unified front during the transition, stating, “We are hand in glove,”