Amid escalating tensions and ongoing humanitarian crises, former US President Donald Trump has intensified efforts to broker a swift resolution to the war in Ukraine. Top officials from the United States and Russia convened for peace talks in Saudi Arabia. Notably absent from these discussions was a representative from Kyiv, highlighting the complexities in reaching a consensus. With over 7.5 million Ukrainian refugees displaced across Europe and Russia, the stakes remain high for all parties involved.
The conflict, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, has led to significant territorial losses for Ukraine. As of now, Ukraine has lost control of approximately 11% of its land. Despite regaining some territory with the help of military aid from Western allies, the impact of the invasion continues to resonate heavily on the ground. Over 40,000 civilians have been killed or injured, with at least 669 children among the casualties. The war has also displaced millions, with 1.2 million Ukrainian refugees residing in the Russian Federation and over 6.3 million spread across Europe by the end of 2024.
The United States has emerged as the principal financial supporter for Ukraine, contributing approximately $95 billion in military, humanitarian, and financial aid since the inception of the conflict. However, recent proposals by Trump suggest a shift towards a more transactional approach to aid. He has suggested that access to rare earth minerals could be exchanged for continued support. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected this proposal.
"I told them that I want the equivalent, like $500 billion of rare earth, and they’ve essentially agreed to do that, so at least we don’t feel stupid. Otherwise we’re stupid. I said to them, we have to get something. We can’t continue to pay this money," – Donald Trump
The funding freeze has already started affecting ground operations within Ukraine. Ukrainian NGOs and charities have begun facing financial constraints, leading to staff layoffs and service shutdowns. This situation has been exacerbated by the suspension of USAID activities, further straining resources meant to support those most affected by the conflict.
The absence of Ukrainian representation at the Saudi Arabian peace talks raises questions about the legitimacy and effectiveness of any agreements reached without Kyiv's involvement. The exclusion underscores a significant diplomatic challenge in negotiating peace terms that genuinely reflect Ukraine's needs and interests.
As the conflict persists, the humanitarian toll continues to grow. Adult men represent at least half of those killed in the conflict, emphasizing the profound impact on families and communities across Ukraine. The international community remains watchful as diplomatic efforts unfold, seeking a resolution that balances geopolitical interests with humanitarian imperatives.
