Ukrainian Member of Parliament Ivanna Klympush-Tsyntsadze has expressed concerns over a potential second presidency of Donald Trump, fearing it may not favor Ukraine's interests. Recently, Ukraine's leader sanctioned Trump, citing "threats to national security" and "creating obstacles to economic development" as reasons provided by Ukraine's security service. This development coincides with a complex geopolitical landscape where the ongoing war in Ukraine is seen as a pivotal issue with global implications for the future world order.
Before the full-scale invasion in 2022, President Volodymyr Zelensky's trust rating stood at 37%. However, amid escalating tensions and global attention, the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology reported an increase in his trust rating to 52% as Trump returned to office at the beginning of 2025. Notably, this rating surged to 65% following Trump's comments blaming Ukraine for instigating the war, leading many Ukrainians to rally around their president in response.
Despite President Zelensky's rising trust ratings, his administration faced challenges after a failed counteroffensive in 2023 and the dismissal of Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, the popular commander in chief of the armed forces. The Come Back Alive foundation, led by Taras Chmut, has been instrumental in supporting Ukrainian troops since Russia's invasion of Crimea in 2014. Chmut emphasizes that the war transcends local boundaries and is a significant determinant of the future global order.
"This war is not for some area, town or treeline in the east," said Taras Chmut. "This is the war that will define the world order for future decades. Whether this world will still exist depends on how this war goes."
The recent visit by Trump to Ukraine saw a potential minerals deal between Ukraine and the US left unsigned, further highlighting tensions between Kyiv and Washington under Trump's "America First" policy. Yulia, a Ukrainian citizen, reflected on the diplomatic discourse during Trump's visit.
"It was an emotional conversation, but I understand our president," Yulia expressed. "Maybe it wasn't diplomatic, but it was sincere. It's about life, we want to live."
Reports from Ukrainian TV channels noted the absence of an agreement during Trump's visit. Andriy, another Ukrainian citizen, voiced his disapproval of the meeting's tone.
"They [Donald Trump and JD Vance] were so rude," remarked Andriy.
Volodymyr Paniotto, director of the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology, noted the rallying effect around President Zelensky amidst these challenges.
"When the situation becomes worse, we have another rallying around the flag," observed Volodymyr Paniotto.
European divisions on providing security for Ukraine further complicate matters, with some nations urging the U.S. to act as a protective ally. Inna Sovsun, another Ukrainian MP, highlighted the importance of seeking stronger alliances.
"We need to find stronger allies in Europe and Canada, Australia and Japan, who've all been supporting us," Inna Sovsun stated. "It's important to find the right mediator."
The geopolitical landscape remains fraught with challenges as nations grapple with their roles in supporting Ukraine. Taras Chmut warns of complacency among global powers.
"Europe and the world once again want to close their eyes and believe in a miracle, but miracles do not happen," Chmut cautioned. "Countries must accept the reality of the situation and do something about it. Otherwise, you will be the one to disappear next – after Ukraine."
President Zelensky's recent visit to Washington aimed to foster deeper cooperation with the United States to secure lasting peace. However, Trump's policies have created rifts between Kyiv and Washington, potentially complicating efforts for a diplomatic resolution.
"Someone Trump can recognize, but someone we trust too. Someone like Georgia Meloni of Italy," suggested Inna Sovsun.
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