Ukrainians split on path forward as Zelensky, Trump discuss ceasefire
Luis Avila
INDIAN WELLS, Calif. (KESQ) – As ceasefire talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and President Donald Trump took place Monday, Ukrainian Americans in the Coachella Valley are reacting with a mix of hope, skepticism, and concern.
For many in the local Ukrainian community, the ongoing war is more than just a distant conflict — it’s a personal crisis that continues to cast a long shadow.
“It’s been devastating. First year, no one could believe it was happening. I couldn’t sleep… It’s been 3 years. It’s been a long time. Many people died. Many families have been affected.”
Tatiana Wright, Indian Wells resident
Tatiana Wright is among those cautiously optimistic about the latest ceasefire talks. She believes dialogue — even with Russian President Vladimir Putin — is essential. When asked about whether compromises — including possible land concessions — should be on the table, Wright didn’t rule it out.”
“Yes he met with Putin.. Without conversation, without process of negotiation, he has no resolution. We’re going nowhere. We need to sit at table and start talking regardless of who we have to talk… If it takes some land to be negotiated, whatever it takes.”
Tatiana Wright, Indian Wells resident
But not everyone in the community shares that sentiment.
Nila Onuferko has deep concern over any deal that might involve territorial concessions or suggest moral equivalence between Ukraine and its aggressor. She argues that giving up land would set a dangerous precedent for the future.
“When someone says to Zelensky, ‘It’s in your hands to stop this,’ it really lends the question: really, who’s invading who?… If they give up land, it sets a bad precedent because then it says who are we as a people.”’
Nila Onuferko, Indian Wells resident
While opinions vary, one thing is clear: the desire for peace is shared across the community.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.