Trump Adviser: Diplomatic Resolution Likely for Ukraine War, Calls with Putin Expected

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are expected to have a call in the coming days or weeks, according to Mike Waltz, Trump’s incoming national security adviser.

Waltz acknowledged that "everybody knows that this has to end somehow diplomatically," but emphasized the difficulty of expelling all Russian forces from Ukrainian territory, stating, "I just don't think it's realistic to say we're going to expel every Russian from every inch of Ukrainian soil, even Crimea."

He highlighted that Trump has "acknowledged that reality," a position now recognized globally. Waltz referred to the war as a "meat grinder of people and resources" with "World War Three consequences" and stressed the need for a resolution. In discussing contacts between Trump and Putin, he stated, "I do expect a call for, at least in the coming days and weeks."

The ongoing Russian invasion of sovereign Ukraine has led to tens of thousands of deaths and millions displaced. U.S. officials regard Russia as a significant threat, while Russian authorities view U.S.’ efforts to protect Ukraine against its abuser as “efforts to undermine Russia's interests and stability”.