In a calculated move on the global geopolitical chessboard, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is leveraging President Donald Trump’s diplomatic win in Gaza to put Russia in check. By hailing the US-brokered peace, Zelensky is signaling to Moscow that Ukraine is actively courting a powerful mediator who has a proven track record of ending conflicts.
This is a classic diplomatic gambit. By publicly and repeatedly praising Trump’s “outstanding achievement,” Zelensky is not just complimenting the US; he is sending a clear message to the Kremlin that the current stalemate is not permanent and that a new, more powerful player might be about to take a more active role at the table.
His coordination with Finland’s President Alex Stubb is another key move, reinforcing his position by showing he has the support of a key regional player. This alignment strengthens his hand before any potential future negotiations, demonstrating that he is not diplomatically isolated.
The mention of a “corresponding vision” for peace is the equivalent of telling an opponent you have a planned series of moves they haven’t seen yet. It creates uncertainty for Russia and puts the onus on them to consider the consequences of a new, US-backed Ukrainian strategy.
While these strategic moves are being made, the board itself is still under fire. The daily Russian attacks are the brutal reality of the game, but Zelensky’s diplomatic offensive is a clear attempt to change the rules and force a new outcome.
