Trump's plan is for Ukraine to 'surrender' to Russia, former head of US forces in Europe warns.
U.S. and Russian presidents are set to speak on the phone, with Ukraine expressing hope for peace while firmly refusing to recognize any Russian-occupied territories as part of Russia. The Kremlin has confirmed that the phone call between Putin and Trump is scheduled between 1 pm and 3 pm GMT (2 pm to 4 pm CET).
Ben Hodges, former commander of U.S. forces in Europe, criticized Donald Trump's peace plan, accusing it of forcing Ukraine to "surrender" to Russia. Hodges, who served as Commanding General of the United States Army Europe until 2018, condemned Trump for his pro-Russia stance, pointing to the perceived humiliation of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a meeting at the White House as evidence of Trump's intentions. Hodges stated:
"This is not a peace plan; it’s a surrender. It’s pressure from the United States for Ukraine to give in to Russia."
Hodges continued, "The mask came off during the debacle in the Oval Office two weeks ago, and since then, all actions have pointed in the same direction. The administration expects Ukraine to give up something—especially territory—and I don’t understand why they think this is in America’s strategic interests."
Trump is expected to speak with Putin on Tuesday regarding a proposed 30-day ceasefire in the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, Hodges expressed doubt that the Kremlin would pursue peace unless it involved achieving its goal of leaving Ukraine severely weakened.
"I think the idea that Russia would honor any agreement is nonsense," Hodges said. "There’s no historical precedent that shows Russia would follow through unless there was a significant force compelling them to do so. There’s no indication Russia is genuinely interested in a peaceful resolution unless they control everything."
Hodges, currently living in Frankfurt, spoke to the Guardian’s chief reporter, Daniel Boffey, during a train journey from London to Lviv, in western Ukraine, as they examined how Europe is adjusting to the evolving political, security, and economic landscape.
He also commented on the Trump administration’s approach to Europe, saying, "It’s clear that the Trump administration has zero respect for Europe as a whole or for most European countries. They don’t consider European interests; they only care about demanding that Europe buys American goods."
Despite his criticism, Hodges urged, "Please don’t give up on the United States. Our relationship with Europe has had its ups and downs over the years, but we’ve always managed to work it out. So even if it seems bleak right now, don’t give up on the U.S."
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