JD Vance, US Vice President, Considers 'Bargaining' Over Territory Between Ukraine and Russia Unfeasible
During a recent visit to Hungary, JD Vance, the Vice President of the United States, expressed his views on the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, stating that he does not find 'bargaining' over 'a few square kilometers of territory' to be practical.
JD Vance, the Vice President of the United States, during his recent visit to Hungary, articulated his stance on the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, asserting that he does not consider 'bargaining' over 'a few square kilometers of territory' to be a feasible approach. Vance's remarks were published in an article by The Guardian, which extensively covered his thoughts and comments.
Vance emphasized that the United States feels disappointment towards many political leaders in Europe who, according to him, 'do not seem particularly interested in resolving this specific conflict.' He pointed out that only a few European leaders have shown willingness to support Ukraine in this challenging situation, highlighting Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who, in Vance's view, has 'prompted us to truly understand this' war.
Furthermore, Vance underscored that the resolution of the conflict depends not only on the international community but also on Kyiv and Moscow themselves. He hinted that Ukraine might have to make territorial concessions to achieve peace. 'What I would say to both the Russians and the Ukrainians is: you know, we are now talking about bargaining over a few square kilometers of territory one way or another. Is it worth the loss of hundreds of thousands of additional Russian and Ukrainian young men? Is it worth additional months or even years of high energy prices and economic devastation? We believe the answer is a definite 'no',' Vance stated.
He also noted that 'it takes two to tango,' emphasizing that both Russians and Ukrainians must negotiate their next steps independently. 'So while Viktor [Orban] and President Trump will continue to work towards a peaceful resolution, essentially, we can only open the door. The Russians and Ukrainians have to walk through it themselves,' the US Vice President added.
Vance's visit to Budapest began on April 7, just days before the parliamentary elections in Hungary scheduled for April 12. During a joint press conference with the Hungarian Prime Minister, he also remarked that Donald Trump and Viktor Orban have done the most to end Russia's war against Ukraine.
'But now, as the war is indeed ongoing, the two leaders who have probably done the most to bring this devastating conflict to an end have been Donald Trump and Viktor Orban. They have done this through diplomacy; they have talked to people to understand what Ukrainians and Russians need to end the war,' Vance emphasized.
Thus, the position of the United States remains unchanged: a peaceful resolution to the conflict is only possible with the active participation of both sides in negotiations. Vice President Vance called for constructive dialogue, stressing the importance of compromise to achieve stability in the region.