WASHINGTON – US Vice-President J.D. Vance warned that Russia could face sanctions and potential military action if President Vladimir Putin refuses a peace deal ensuring Ukraine’s long-term independence, the Wall Street Journal reported on Feb 13.
Vance emphasized that the US has both economic and military leverage to pressure Putin, stating, “We do care about Ukraine having sovereign independence.” His remarks follow President Donald Trump’s phone discussions with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Feb 12, initiating talks to end the three-year-long conflict.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told allies in Brussels that returning to Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders was unrealistic, and NATO membership for Kyiv was not seen as part of the solution. The shift in US policy has raised concerns in Ukraine, with fears that Trump’s negotiations may favor Russia.
Trump assured reporters that Ukraine would be involved in peace negotiations but hinted at a surprising deal in the works. Vance noted that Trump is keeping all options open, stating, “Everything is on the table, let’s make a deal.” However, he acknowledged that Trump could adjust his stance based on how negotiations progress.