US Vice President JD Vance expressed confidence that the United States can facilitate a resolution to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. This optimism comes despite complications arising from President Donald Trump‘s recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In an exclusive interview on NBC News’s “Meet the Press,” Vance noted that both sides have shown significant concessions in the past few weeks.
During the interview, Vance addressed a recent Russian missile attack that targeted an electronics factory in western Ukraine, which is owned by a US company. The strike reportedly injured several workers. When asked by moderator Kristen Welker if he was “enraged” by this attack, Vance redirected the criticism towards former President Joe Biden. He stated, “I don’t like it… But this is a war, and this is why we want to stop the killing.” He emphasized that President Trump has exerted more pressure on Russia than Biden, who he accused of merely talking without taking action to end the conflict.
Trump, in a separate statement, acknowledged dissatisfaction with the missile strikes and indicated that any peace agreement could take weeks to finalize. He stated, “I think over the next two weeks, we’re going to find out which way it’s going to go.”
Vance highlighted that he does not view the missile strike and other recent events as permanent obstacles to peace negotiations. He asserted that there remains ample room for dialogue. “We’re going to eventually be successful, or we’ll hit a brick wall… This is the energetic diplomacy that’s going to bring this war to a close,” he said.
When Welker pressed Vance on how the US could apply pressure on Russia without imposing new sanctions, he pointed out that Trump has implemented “aggressive economic leverage,” such as secondary tariffs on countries like India, aimed at restricting Russian access to their oil revenues.
Vance also addressed concerns regarding US military involvement in the conflict, reaffirming Trump’s stance against deploying troops. “The president has been very clear,” Vance remarked. “There are not going to be boots on the ground in Ukraine. But we are going to continue to play an active role in ensuring that the Ukrainians have the security guarantees they need.”
The interview aired on March 15, 2024, amid escalating tensions surrounding the peace process. Recently, Russia’s Foreign Minister indicated that no meetings had been scheduled between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, raising questions about the effectiveness of Trump’s mediation efforts.
Vance maintained that he does not believe Russia is merely stringing Trump along, citing “significant concessions” from Russia regarding territorial integrity for Ukraine. He noted, “They’ve recognised that they’re not going to be able to install a puppet regime in Kyiv.” While acknowledging that not all demands have been met, he emphasized that progress is being made.
The conversation also touched on the issue of security guarantees for Ukraine, which remains unresolved. Vance clarified that discussions on security assurances would occur only after the conflict ends and acknowledged Russia’s involvement in these conversations.
In addition to foreign policy, Vance briefly discussed domestic issues, including new congressional maps in Texas that could enhance the Republican majority. He framed these efforts as a necessary response to what he described as aggressive gerrymandering by Democrats.
As for his own political future, Vance sidestepped questions about potentially succeeding Trump in the 2028 presidential election. He stated, “I see myself as a vice president who’s trying to do a good job for the American people.” He reiterated his focus on current responsibilities while acknowledging that political outcomes will unfold in due course.
The interview with Vance marked a significant moment in the ongoing discussion surrounding US involvement in the Ukraine conflict and the broader implications for international relations.
