Ukraine defense chief says nation can find way with any US President - AP
Ukraine will find a way to resist Russian forces even if former US President Donald Trump wins and jeopardizes crucial American support, according to Rustem Umerov's remote address at the annual Aspen Security Forum in Colorado.
"We believe in US leadership, and we believe America wants its partners and allies to be strong as well," Umerov said.
"At this stage, we will focus on the battlefield. Whatever the outcome of the US elections, we will find solutions," he added.
Umerov noted that Ukraine has ramped up its mobilization efforts and will continue to fight to reclaim its territories.
"It was within our goals to take back the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, seized by Russians early in their offensive," he said.
Umerov emphasized that Ukraine cannot stop Russian attacks on its cities and infrastructure unless it can target airbases and other military facilities within Russia from where the attacks are launched.
"We want to say it loudly: We are focusing on military targets, so that they are not able to hit the civilians in Ukraine," he said.
Trump's views on the war between Russia and Ukraine
During recent debates with Democratic candidate Joe Biden, President Trump claimed he could supposedly end the war before even taking office, without specifying how. He often makes such statements, boasting about his influence but without delving into details.
Recently, Politico reported, citing two national security experts supporting Trump, that he is allegedly considering a deal where NATO commits not to expand eastward, particularly to Ukraine and Georgia. It's also claimed he is currently negotiating with Putin on what part of Ukrainian territory Moscow could annex.
Regarding the possibility of easing sanctions against Russia, Trump stated he is not a fan of restrictions.
Trump has chosen Senator J. D. Vensa as his vice presidential candidate, who has blocked aid to Ukraine in Congress.