As discussions of a potential ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine unfold, one former U.S. diplomat appears more concerned about who gets the credit rather than the possibility of ending a devastating conflict.
During a segment on MSNBC, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul expressed unease over the idea that former President Donald Trump might be seen as the key figure behind a peace deal.
“President Trump is going to say, ‘I ended the war.’ That’s going to be the headline,” McFaul remarked, cautioning that this is “not the right way to think about this ceasefire.” His concern? That Trump’s supporters would compare his potential success to President Biden’s lack of progress in resolving the conflict.
Trump, for his part, remains focused on the negotiations. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One over the weekend, he announced his plans to speak directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing his hope for a ceasefire and, ultimately, an end to the war. “Maybe we can, maybe we can’t, but I think we have a very good chance,” Trump stated.
Ukraine has already signaled its willingness to move forward. According to State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Ukrainian leadership has agreed to a U.S.-proposed 30-day interim ceasefire.
“The ball is now in Russia’s court,” Bruce confirmed. However, while Putin has expressed general support for the idea of a ceasefire, he has yet to formally commit to the plan.
McFaul, however, is skeptical—arguing that any ceasefire under Trump’s leadership would be the result of coercion rather than diplomacy. He claimed Trump’s team had pressured Ukraine into concessions by reducing military and intelligence support while “giving Vladimir Putin—so far—everything he’s wanted.”
McFaul went further, alleging that Trump’s approach essentially handed Ukraine’s territory to Russia. “He just hinted at it, like you said, just amazing. He’s like giving away other countries’ land.”
Despite McFaul’s objections, negotiations appear to be moving forward. When pressed for an update, the White House referred reporters to a statement from Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino, who confirmed via X that Trump’s conversation with Putin was “going well.”