These policy recommendations for the incoming US administration reflect discussion among experts from the United States, the United Kingdom, European Union member states, Ukraine, and Russia convened at the University of Michigan on December 2-3 and hosted by the Weiser Center for Europe and Eurasia and the Atlantic Council.
Russia—supported by China, Iran, and North Korea—remains a threat the United States and Europe must tackle through strength and resolve. If unchecked, Russia’s malign actions, including its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, will damage US political, military, and economic interests in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. President Donald Trump has an opportunity to conduct a more effective pressure campaign against Russia and seek an end to the war. Doing so will thwart Russia and its allies and reduce the chances of World War III.
A winning strategy requires security and eventual membership in NATO and the European Union for Ukraine. Ukraine has made clear its willingness to join negotiations to end the war, while senior officials in the Russian government have dismissed offers for negotiations of a peaceful settlement. US interests will advance if Ukraine remains free and sovereign, and Russia fails in its aggressive war and is deterred in the future. Recommendations for the next US administration include:
- An early ceasefire along the existing lines can suspend the high-intensity war but must be linked with provisions for Ukraine’s security. A ceasefire must be enforced by troops on the ground. NATO’s European members should lead this effort, with US backup support.
- Defense guarantees will be a prerequisite to a durable end to the war. Eventual NATO membership is the optimal way to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. Ukraine’s accession to NATO is not to be negotiated with Russia but should be settled between the United States, its NATO allies, and Ukraine.
Voice of Ukraine 