President Donald Trump is advancing a bold new strategy for Ukraine’s security, effectively tasking Europe with weaving the primary security blanket for the nation. This message has been delivered to both the Kremlin and European capitals, signaling a departure from decades of U.S.-led security policy in the region.
This strategic vision was recently discussed in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump had previously consolidated this policy during an August 18 meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European representatives, ensuring the key stakeholders were aligned with his plan.
At the core of Trump’s proposition is the transfer of responsibility for providing “significant security guarantees” to European powers. He has made it clear that the U.S. will transition to a “backup” position, offering support but not dictating the terms of Ukraine’s defense.
This diplomatic initiative is connected to a larger strategic objective involving nuclear arms control. Trump has revealed that his conversations with Putin, such as those during an August 15 meeting in Alaska, also focus on the long-term goal of drawing down their nuclear arsenals after the Ukraine conflict concludes.