Ukraine's Zelenskyy Faces Grave Danger Amid Escalating Tensions with Russia
By Harry Thompson, Senior News Reporter Published: 16:27, 4 Dec 2024 | Updated: 16:36, 4 Dec 2024
The war in Ukraine, now nearing its third year, faces a potential turning point as political shifts in the West and growing alliances between Russia and rogue states create a dire outlook for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Experts warn that his life is at risk and that Ukraine could face catastrophic territorial losses, especially as newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to assume office.
Trump’s rhetoric about quickly ending the war has raised alarms among international observers. His repeated claims of desiring a “deal” to bring peace have sparked fears that Ukraine might be coerced into ceding territory, allowing Russian President Vladimir Putin to tighten his grip on the Donbas region and Crimea.
Professor Anthony Glees of the University of Buckingham expressed grave concerns in an exclusive interview, stating, “Ukraine is in trouble. The West has failed to provide the leadership or support needed to ensure a decisive Ukrainian victory. Now, with Trump coming into office, there’s a real risk that Ukraine will be forced into an unfavorable peace agreement.”
Shifting Global Dynamics
Compounding the situation, instability in other regions of the world is making matters worse. South Korea, a key U.S. ally, has been thrown into disarray following the imposition of martial law and the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. This move has emboldened North Korea, which is reportedly funneling thousands of troops to aid Russia in Ukraine. According to reports, as many as 12,000 North Korean soldiers are already on Ukrainian soil, with numbers potentially increasing to 100,000.
“The instability in South Korea benefits only two men: Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin,” Professor Glees noted. “It’s clear that Putin is capitalizing on alliances with North Korea, Iran, and even China to offset his losses. Meanwhile, the West looks weaker than ever.”
Zelenskyy's Fight for Survival
Amid these developments, Zelenskyy faces growing isolation. Recent reports suggest that Kremlin plans to eliminate him are already in motion. “Zelenskyy’s death sentence has been signed in Moscow,” Professor Glees warned. “Putin hopes Zelenskyy will flee into exile, but the Ukrainian leader is unlikely to abandon his people. However, his position is becoming increasingly untenable.”
While the West has provided military aid, it has been insufficient to counter Russia’s relentless onslaught. Biden’s administration, in particular, has faced criticism for failing to deliver the advanced weaponry Ukraine desperately needs. Professor Glees accused Western leaders of “allowing Putin to dictate the terms of this war,” leaving Ukraine vulnerable to a forced settlement.
The Trump Factor
Trump’s impending presidency has exacerbated concerns. Professor Glees predicts that Trump will broker a peace deal freezing the conflict along current frontlines, granting Russia control of the Donbas and Crimea while demanding that Ukraine remain neutral for at least 25 years.
“Trump’s focus will be on a quick resolution, not justice or lasting peace,” Professor Glees argued. “He’ll offer Putin a deal that prioritizes U.S. interests, leaving Ukraine at the mercy of a reinvigorated Russia. This could destabilize Europe for decades.”
A Bleak Future
The stakes have never been higher for Ukraine. Without decisive action from the West, experts fear that the country will be forced to accept a bitter peace deal. “Putin’s goal is not just territorial gains but the total subjugation of Ukraine,” Glees said. “If we’re not careful, Zelenskyy’s leadership—and Ukraine’s sovereignty—could be lost forever.”
As the clock ticks down to Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025, the world watches anxiously, hoping for a breakthrough but bracing for the worst.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0