Zelenskyy urges Trump to adopt Reagan’s approach towards Russia

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has encouraged U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to adopt a foreign policy approach akin to former President Ronald Reagan’s, “peace through strength” policy as a means to deter Russian aggression.

Drawing on the legacy of Reagan’s foreign policy, known as the “Reagan Doctrine,” Zelenskyy pointed out how Reagan supported anti-communist movements and bolstered U.S. military capabilities, particularly during the Cold War.

This doctrine, he noted, advocated for negotiating from a position of power, which Zelenskyy believes could help Ukraine and its allies achieve greater security in the face of Russian threats.

Trump, who was declared president-elect after defeating Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in Tuesday’s election, has expressed a desire to end the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.

Zelenskyy in a video statement shared on his X account on Wednesday, stressed the role of a “strong America” and robust international alliances in securing peace, an appeal aimed at guiding Trump’s foreign policy approach.

“For us in Ukraine, and all across Europe, it has always been crucial to hear the words of the then 45th President of the United States about “peace through strength.

“When this principle becomes the policy of the 47th President, both America and the entire world will undoubtedly benefit.

“It’s no coincidence that Ronald Reagan is mentioned so often these days—people want confidence, they want freedom, they want a normal life.

“For us, that means a life free from Russian aggression, with a strong America, a strong Ukraine, and strong allies.”