NATO Official Warns Against Appeasing Russia in Ukraine

A senior military official from NATO voiced serious concerns on Saturday regarding potential peace negotiations led by President-elect Donald J. Trump that might allow President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia to emerge victorious in Ukraine. The official emphasized that such an outcome would jeopardize the broader interests of the United States.

In an extensive interview conducted during a European defense summit in Prague, Admiral Rob Bauer, the Dutch chairman of NATO’s Military Committee, articulated the gravity of the situation. He stated, “If you allow a nation like Russia to win, to come out of this as the victor, then what does it mean for other autocratic states in the world where the U.S. has also interests?” He further elaborated, “It’s important enough to talk about Ukraine on its own, but there is more at stake than just Ukraine.”

Mr. Trump has made bold claims in the past, asserting that he could resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine within a single day, though he has yet to clarify the methods he would employ to achieve such a swift resolution. Notably, a settlement proposed by Vice President-elect JD Vance in September reflects desires aligned with those close to the Kremlin—it suggests that Russia should retain the territories it has seized and includes assurances that Ukraine would not be permitted to join NATO.

In response to queries regarding Mr. Trump’s stance, a spokeswoman for his transition team, Karoline Leavitt, stated, “He was re-elected because the American people trust him to lead our country and restore peace through strength around the world.” She concluded by asserting, “When he returns to the White House, he will take the necessary actions to do just that.”