Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed a strategic move to Donald Trump on Saturday: to use the Gaza peace deal as a springboard to launch a decisive effort to end the war in Ukraine. The call was a direct invitation for the US President to apply his deal-making focus to Eastern Europe.
Zelensky initiated the conversation by praising Trump’s “outstanding achievement,” strategically using this moment of success to transition to his own nation’s plight. His assertion was clear: “If a war can be stopped in one region, then surely other wars can be stopped as well.”
The concept of a “springboard” translated into a discussion about practical necessities. Zelensky briefed Trump on the latest Russian attacks on Kyiv’s energy system and the urgent need to strengthen air defense to withstand the assault.
The leaders discussed “concrete agreements,” suggesting that the springboard analogy is already translating into action. The political momentum from the Gaza deal is being directly channeled into military support for Ukraine.
Zelensky’s message was one of calculated optimism. He is pushing the idea that a breakthrough is achievable, but that it requires a concerted effort to build the “strength” that will compel Russia to the table for “real diplomacy.” The Gaza deal provides the perfect narrative cover for this push.