The positions of key candidates for government positions cast doubt on the continued support for Ukraine from the United States.
Marco Rubio plans to take on the role of U.S. Secretary of State, indicating a potential weakening of support. He also entertains the idea of compromise agreements that would keep Ukraine out of NATO.
The new U.S. National Security Advisor is Mike Waltz. A former military officer with extensive experience, Waltz advocates for diplomatic pressure on both Russia and Ukraine. Despite criticism of “blank checks for Ukraine,” he acknowledges the importance of containing Russia. At the same time, Waltz is against Ukraine's NATO membership, viewing it as a risk to the U.S.
Tit Hegset is set to become the new U.S. Secretary of Defense. Trump's choice for the Pentagon chief has raised eyebrows. Hegset, a Fox News host and National Guard officer, has military service experience but lacks high-level strategic skills. He has expressed skepticism about the significance of the war in Ukraine for the U.S., prioritizing domestic issues instead.
The overall rhetoric of the candidates suggests a potential shift in policy towards Kyiv: a reduction in financial support and encouraging Ukraine to negotiate with Russia.