Ukraine prepares for its most uncertain Christmas since the beginning of the war

Ukraine is preparing to face its most uncertain Christmas since the beginning of the war, with the potential of peace talks that could turn tense as the country has much to lose.

As the war stretches near its third year, the perspective of the country’s vital allies in Europe and America over peace talks, even if it means conceding territory, is changing.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called Russia's Vladimir Putin to ask for negotiations as his government faces downfall. He also wanted to discuss the situation with President-elect Trump, who promised an immediate end to the war.

The Kremlin confirmed its intention to join any potential negotiation with Mr. Trump, albeit with clear terms. The war has become an economic burden with high military losses for Putin.

However, the most evident proof of intentions is the resources that allies send Ukraine. Chancellor Scholz reiterated that he would prioritize his country’s economy, while Mr. Trump was also against sending more resources.

President Zelensky has focused most of his efforts on convincing President-elect Trump to back Ukraine in a potential negotiation. The New York Times reported that he postponed signing a mining deal for Mr. Trump to take the credit, not Mr. Biden.

The tense diplomatic courting is related to the terms and conditions of the negotiations, which could cost Ukraine territory now that Russia has pushed its troops further into the nation’s eastern territory.

Germany and the US are not the only allies changing their stand. According to Le Monde, Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk said talks could start this winter. His country is one of its most important allies.

In October, Péter Szijjártó, Hungarian Foreign Minister, told German magazine Cicero he was "convinced" peace would come "fairly quickly" if Donald Trump were elected.

Finland has suffered severe economic consequences from the war. By observing the Russian embargo, the country lost a vital tourism source. Still, after joining NATO, the nation is now more involved in the military aspects of the conflict.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb told Bloomberg that Europe should take Donald Trump's promise to end the war seriously. He expects negotiations to begin soon.

Given the changed political situation in the US and Germany, many analysts believe that negotiations on a possible end are likely. According to the DW, the Ukrainian president said in a radio interview that he is seeking peace with Russia in the coming year.

After a possible end to the war, reconstruction will demand billions. According to German magazine IPG Journal, Germany and the EU, in particular, will benefit from this. Still, the political cost might be severe in Ukraine.