As Trump and Zelensky prepare to attend the Pope’s funeral in Rome, speculation grows over a possible shift in Ukraine-Russia peace talks.

Trump has proposed a ceasefire that assumes Crimea will remain with Russia—an idea he claims Zelensky “understands,” though Ukraine’s president has firmly rejected it. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko hinted a temporary concession might be considered for peace. Critics warn such recognition would violate international law and past U.S. commitments, including the 1994 Budapest Memorandum. Meanwhile, Russia continues attacks on Ukraine despite Trump’s social media plea to Putin. Analysts argue Putin has little incentive to negotiate, believing time favors Russia. If U.S. support wanes, Ukraine may lean more on Europe—especially Germany, which is boosting defense spending. But experts caution that Europe can’t replace U.S. aid quickly. As uncertainty looms, many fear a drawn-out war or shifting global power dynamics, particularly if the U.S. backs away diplomatically or militarily under Trump’s second term.

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