US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated that Ukraine must decide on its course of action in the war: whether to continue fighting or start negotiations with Russia.
Blinken emphasised that the US is working to ensure Ukraine is in a favourable position to secure the strongest possible position in 2025. He said this involves strengthening Ukraine's military positions and providing ammunition, financial and overall support.
"It means continuing to exert maximum pressure on Russia... Everything that Russia tries to do takes longer, costs more and is harder to do. And of course, the losses on the battlefield are extraordinary. Putin keeps throwing these young men [Russian soldiers] into a meat-grinder of his own making."
Blinken also noted that Ukraine's long-term success depends on ceasefire guarantees under fair conditions. He stressed that these guarantees must prevent the possibility of a renewed Russian attack in the future.
"If we get that, Ukraine is on a path to success," Blinken said.
Blinken believes Ukraine has proven its strength as an independent state that could not be erased from the world map despite Russia's attempts.
"That’s what Putin wanted to do. He’s failed. It can stand strongly on its own feet militarily, economically, democratically. That’s the best possible rebuke to Putin. And I know President Trump will want to get a good deal going forward."
