In Zaporizhzhia, as shattered glass from Russian strikes is swept away, the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance of the upcoming U.S. election. Inna, a shopkeeper whose storefront has endured repeated bombings, hopes for a favorable outcome, particularly rooting for Vice-President Kamala Harris. "We hope the woman wins and continues to support us," she says, echoing the sentiments of many who depend on American aid.
Since launching a counteroffensive in 2023, Ukraine's military efforts have struggled, shifting from ambitious territorial recoveries to survival as Russia's bombardments continue. The U.S. has so far provided over $50 billion in military support, but future aid may hinge on the election results. Harris advocates for ongoing assistance, though a Republican-run Congress could curtail her plans. Conversely, Donald Trump has signaled intentions to negotiate, possibly requiring Ukraine to cede territory, which worries Ukrainian defenders.
On the front lines, soldiers like Andriy, who oversees a fleet of U.S.-made armored vehicles, feel the uncertainty acutely. "If aid stops or slows, we’ll fight with what we have," he says, recognizing Ukraine's reliance on Western resources. For these troops, the stakes of November 5th's U.S. vote are extraordinarily high, impacting both battlefield operations and morale.
Western allies closely watch America's stance to gauge their own support. The presence of U.S.-supplied drones, grenade launchers, and advanced weaponry showcases the ongoing military partnership, while Ukrainian officials like President Zelensky pitch the nation as a strategic investment to allies, highlighting both domestic innovations and opportunities for Western companies.
Civilians near the frontlines, however, reflect a divided hope for the future. In areas like Pokrovsk, where Russian forces edge closer, there’s growing fatigue. Some believe that negotiating earlier could have spared much suffering and view Trump’s potential presidency as a chance for peace. "Death is not worth territory," says one resident, expressing a pragmatic but controversial view.
Nonetheless, for many, such as Lyubov, who has faced Russian destruction firsthand, any notion of peace is deeply tied to justice and full territorial integrity. "What about those who gave their lives?" she asks, insisting that true victory would mean reclaiming all of Ukraine, including Crimea.
The U.S. election is a geopolitical pendulum for Ukraine, teetering between interventionism and isolationism. The country, which fought for independence in 1991, now finds itself in a struggle that could shape its very existence, heavily influenced by decisions made thousands of miles away in Washington.
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