Ukrainians are experiencing mounting fatigue from the relentless emotional and physical toll of ongoing conflict, punctuated by sleepless nights filled with air raid sirens and drone attacks. As the situation deteriorates, the announcement from former US President Donald Trump—a 50-day ultimatum to Russia demanding a ceasefire or facing severe tariffs—has not been well received. Kyiv Mayor Vitaly Klitschko openly questioned the decision, emphasizing the increase in hostilities and potential casualties that could arise during this period.
President Volodymyr Zelensky engaged with Trump after the latter promised "top-of-the-line weapons" to support Ukraine through NATO allies. However, for some Ukrainian officials like MP Kira Rudik, the ultimatum feels bittersweet, offering Putin a new window to intensify his military operations. “We don’t know if some of us will survive for these 50 days," she stated, reflecting the urgent fears of her constituents.
Last month, over 230 civilian deaths highlighted the grave reality of the current situation, as missile and drone strikes reached record levels, according to UN monitors. While the involvement of new military technologies, such as Patriot air defense systems, aims to bolster national security, skepticism looms. Rudik asserted that there have been no recent indications from Russia that it seeks to halt its military campaign, despite Ukraine’s offer for an unconditional ceasefire.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded to Trump’s tariff threat, suggesting that such an ultimatum would not encourage peace but rather fuel continued aggression from Kyiv. The streets of Kyiv echo with voices of doubt. Residents Yuliia and Alisa voiced concerns about Trump’s motives, stating, "It's all about his ego," and fearing that little will change despite external pressures.
Conversely, some residents express cautious optimism. Nina believed the influx of US weaponry could expedite the end of the war, while Artem, whose father serves in the army, clings to hope for peace. Walking through historical sites in Kyiv, the faces of fallen soldiers, captured in happier times, loom large—haunting reminders of the many lives affected by the conflict. As the war drags on, the call for genuine support and peace remains more urgent than ever.
