Vice President JD Vance is advocating for a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the role of ‘energetic diplomacy’ over military action. The Vice President dismissed sentiments that negotiations with Russia are futile, stating that wars are typically concluded not with weapons, but with peace treaties brokered through vigorous diplomatic efforts.
Vance stated during his appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that the United States would either forge a successful peace treaty or hit an impasse. In either event, the process of negotiation and leveraging diplomatic power would persist. He expressed confidence in the diplomatic process, saying, “This is the energetic diplomacy that’s going to bring this war to a close.”
Vance defended President Donald Trump’s diplomatic tactics against Russia, countering NBC host Kristen Welker’s insinuation that Russia’s President Putin was simply manipulating Trump. Vance pointed out that Russia has made significant concessions during the course of the conflict, highlighting its willingness to negotiate on some of its core demands.
Despite the ongoing conflict, the U.S. is engaging in this diplomatic process in good faith, negotiating with both Russia and Ukraine to find common ground and cease hostilities. Vance iterated that President Trump remains committed to establishing lasting peace and engaging with adversaries.
“What the president has tried to do here is engage in very aggressive, very energetic diplomacy, because this war is not in anyone’s interest,” Vance said.
Vance also commented on Russia’s attack on a U.S. company’s factory in western Ukraine, expressing his displeasure with the act while reiterating the urgency of ending the war. He argued that President Trump has done more to apply pressure and economic leverage on Russia than his predecessor, Joe Biden.
Related: Russian Strike Pounds Western Ukraine, Damages American Factory
According to Vance, the peace talks with Russia have resulted in several concessions, including respect for Ukraine’s territorial integrity post-war, no installation of a puppet regime in Ukraine, and some security guarantees for Ukraine.
Vance acknowledged that the diplomatic talks have not fully achieved the White House’s objectives and reiterated that Russia should never have invaded Ukraine. The Vice President emphasized focusing on current issues over past occurrences, aiming to build a foundation for peace.
Aside from international matters, Vance also made remarks on domestic politics, supporting GOP-led redistricting efforts in Texas and dismissing speculation about his own 2028 presidential ambitions. “I see myself as a vice president who’s trying to do a good job for the American people,” Vance stated.