Michael Froman Discusses the Ongoing Ukraine Conflict as Third Anniversary Approaches
As the world marks the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Monday, Michael Froman, president of the Council on Foreign Relations, sheds light on the evolving dynamics of the conflict. What began as a swift military operation by Russian President Vladimir Putin has transformed into a protracted war of attrition, characterized by fierce Ukrainian resistance and substantial Western support.
In the face of this ongoing struggle, U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed a strong desire to bring the conflict to a swift conclusion. Earlier this week, Trump’s envoys met with their Russian counterparts in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for negotiations that lasted four and a half hours. Notably absent from these discussions were Ukrainian and European diplomats, raising concerns about the future of Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.
Trump’s approach to the conflict has drawn criticism, particularly his assertion that Ukraine “should have never started” the war and could have negotiated a deal with Russia. This perspective seems to overlook the fact that it was Russia that initiated the aggression. Furthermore, Trump’s recent comments labeling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a “dictator” while refraining from applying similar language to Putin have sparked outrage and confusion among allies.
The former president’s stance reflects a broader realpolitik strategy, where he appears willing to negotiate with both sides but may exploit Ukraine’s vulnerable position to achieve a quick resolution. Critics argue that this could undermine Ukraine’s interests and security, as Trump prioritizes a rapid end to hostilities over the terms of peace.
Trump’s administration has also floated controversial proposals, including a plan to acquire a significant portion of Ukraine’s mineral wealth—estimated to be worth up to $11.5 trillion—in exchange for U.S. support. Zelenskyy has firmly rejected this notion, stating, “I cannot sell our state.” This highlights the delicate balance of power and the need for Ukraine to maintain its sovereignty in the face of external pressures.
As negotiations unfold, Froman emphasizes the importance of leveraging support from European allies. A coordinated U.S.-European strategy could enhance the chances of a successful peacekeeping mission and ensure that Ukraine receives the necessary backing to rebuild its economy and secure its future. The prospect of a multi-layered defense system, potentially involving European troops, is one avenue being explored to deter further Russian aggression.
However, the question of NATO membership for Ukraine remains contentious. With immediate membership unlikely, discussions are shifting towards establishing credible security guarantees backed by European forces. This could involve a significant commitment of resources, but it is essential for Ukraine’s long-term stability.
As the anniversary of the invasion approaches, the stakes are high. The international community watches closely as Trump navigates these complex negotiations. The lessons from past U.S. foreign policy decisions, particularly in Afghanistan, loom large. A hasty deal that sacrifices Ukraine’s sovereignty could have far-reaching consequences, emboldening adversaries and fracturing alliances.
In conclusion, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine serves as a critical test for U.S. diplomacy and international relations. As Michael Froman points out, the path forward must prioritize a secure and sovereign Ukraine while fostering collaboration with European partners. The world is eager to see how these negotiations unfold and what they mean for the future of Ukraine and global stability. For more insights on this pressing issue, check out CFR’s special initiative on securing Ukraine’s future.
