President Trump’s bold strategy to pause military intelligence sharing with Ukraine appears to be bearing fruit in the ongoing pursuit of peace with Russia.
It’s called “carrot and stick” – and it appears to be working on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
At a glance:
• President Trump confirms the U.S. is “just about” ready to lift its pause on intelligence sharing with Ukraine
• The intelligence freeze was strategically implemented to push Ukraine toward serious peace negotiations with Russia
• A critical meeting between U.S., Ukrainian, and Russian officials is scheduled in Saudi Arabia
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has shown willingness to engage in peace talks after initial resistance
• Trump’s administration has shifted away from the Biden-era approach of unconditional support for Ukraine
Trump’s Peace Strategy Showing Results
President Donald Trump confirmed Sunday that his administration is on the verge of lifting the intelligence sharing freeze with Ukraine, a move that signals progress in his effort to end the destructive conflict. The strategic pause was implemented specifically to encourage Ukrainian leadership to demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace negotiations with Russia.
“We just about have, we really just about have,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, referring to the lifting of intelligence restrictions. The President further clarified his expectations, stating that he wants Ukraine “to want peace … and right now they haven’t shown it to the extent that they should.”
Crucial Saudi Arabia Summit Approaches
A pivotal meeting between U.S. and Ukrainian officials is set to take place in Saudi Arabia, with Russian representatives also expected to participate. This gathering represents the most significant diplomatic effort since Trump took office to find a path toward ending the bloody conflict that has claimed thousands of lives.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz will lead the American delegation, while Ukraine’s team will be headed by Andriy Yermak. President Zelenskyy reportedly plans to propose a partial ceasefire during the talks, focusing specifically on halting long-range air strikes and sea attacks.
Trump expressed optimism about the upcoming negotiations, telling reporters: “We’ll be looking at a lot of things. We have big meetings coming up. As you know, it’s Saudi Arabia that’s going to include Russia. It’ll be Ukraine. We’ll see if we can get something done.”
The Trump administration has been applying considerable pressure on Ukraine, whose leaders continue to offer concessions and publicly declare their interest in achieving a lasting end to the war. These Trump administration policies are undermining the leverage that the United… https://t.co/rBfWMG0no4 pic.twitter.com/Q3MrsDdhP0
— Institute for the Study of War (@TheStudyofWar) March 6, 2025
America First Approach to Foreign Policy
The Trump administration’s handling of the Ukraine conflict marks a decisive break from the previous administration’s policies. Under President Biden, Ukraine received virtually unconditional military and intelligence support without significant pressure to pursue diplomatic solutions.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously made clear that the intelligence suspension was temporary and directly tied to Ukraine’s willingness to engage in peace talks. The strategic shift has drawn criticism from European leaders concerned about concessions to Russia, but has been welcomed by Americans tired of funding a seemingly endless foreign conflict.
Trump also hinted at a potential minerals deal between the U.S. and Ukraine, suggesting economic cooperation could be part of a broader peace package. “I think they will sign the minerals deal,” the President said, reiterating his ultimate goal: “I want them to want peace.”
Well, will Zelenskyy finally listen now that he knows Trump is serious?
Let’s hope so.
