President Donald Trump is rewriting the security equation for Ukraine, handing the lead role to Europe and repositioning the United States as a secondary support power. This new formula has been presented to both allies and adversaries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin.
This strategic recalculation was formalized in an August 18 meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders. Following that summit, Trump briefed Putin on the new expectations during a phone conversation, signaling a major shift in U.S. policy.
At the heart of this new equation is the principle that Europe must furnish the “significant security guarantees” for Ukraine. Trump’s public statements have been clear: America’s role will be to serve as “backup,” not the primary architect of the region’s defense.
This shift is occurring within the context of a broader U.S.-Russia dialogue. Trump revealed that his talks with Putin are not limited to the current conflict but also include future-oriented goals, such as reducing nuclear arsenals, a possibility explored during an August 15 meeting in Alaska.
A New Security Equation: Trump Hands Ukraine’s Defense Lead to Europe
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