Trump Should Avoid Premature Concessions in Ukraine Negotiations, Says Norwegian Foreign Minister

Delhi, India – Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has urged U.S. President Donald Trump not to make concessions on behalf of Ukraine before engaging in negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Eide made these comments during the annual Raisina Dialogue conference in Delhi, where discussions primarily focused on the United States' role in the ongoing efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Eide expressed concern that Trump's suggestions for concessions could inadvertently bolster Russia, especially as the country continues to grapple with economic downturns and military setbacks resulting from the ongoing war. "Most of the Russian economy is in trouble, and Russia was not in a good spot," Eide stated in an interview with The Hindu. He emphasized that any concessions proposed by Trump should align with the interests and positions of Ukraine, noting specific points about recognizing Crimea as part of Russia and urging Ukraine to reconsider its NATO aspirations.

"The war is between Russia and Ukraine. So, a ceasefire has to be owned by the Ukrainians and obviously, by the Russians," Eide elaborated. He warned that certain actions from the U.S. could undesirably enhance Russia's position in the conflict.

Preliminary Ceasefire Status and Ongoing Disputes

The United States has reported that a limited ceasefire is currently in effect, with both Russia and Ukraine agreeing to refrain from attacking each other’s energy and infrastructure. However, significant differences remain regarding the future of the conflict. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who participated in discussions alongside Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at the Raisina Dialogue, reiterated Ukraine’s firm stance on its “red lines.” Sybiha mentioned that Ukraine will not agree to cede any occupied territory to Russia or accept limitations on its military capabilities or foreign policy.

“Now is the time for diplomacy,” Sybiha asserted. He expressed optimism about potential negotiations, supported by Trump's involvement, as a pathway to achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Senior Ukrainian officials confirmed that a negotiating team has been officially established, highlighting Ukraine's serious commitment to finding a resolution.

Challenges to Diplomatic Engagement

Conversely, Vyacheslav Nikonov, a member of the Russian State Duma, expressed skepticism about engaging in talks with the current Ukrainian leadership, labeling the government of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as "illegitimate." He questioned the viability of any agreements reached under the Zelenskyy administration, given the potential for non-acceptance by future governments.

India's position on the conflict remains distinct, as it has not criticized Russia for its actions since the onset of the invasion in February 2022. Jaishankar reiterated India's belief in the necessity of direct communication between the conflicting parties. "You have to talk, you have to engage the other party," he emphasized, urging both Russia and Ukraine to avoid involving other states in their negotiations.

Norway's Firm Stance on Ukraine

In the wake of the ongoing hostilities, Norway has taken a strong stance against Trump’s policies regarding Ukraine, particularly following a controversial meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has been vocal in his support for Ukraine, defining the situation in clear terms of aggression and victimhood. "This is not like a football match where you pick a team. There’s an aggressor and there’s a victim of that aggression," Eide remarked, underscoring Norway's perspective on the conflict.

During his visit to India, Eide also met with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval to discuss the potential for enhancing bilateral relations, the war in Ukraine, and India's crucial role in the evolving geopolitical landscape.

As diplomatic discussions continue in the lead-up to further negotiations in Riyadh, the international community remains watchful of the developments surrounding the Ukraine conflict and the efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution.