Trump insists he wants to end the Ukraine war. In this instance, there is no reason to doubt his sincerity. And yet, he is effectively prolonging the war. How is that possible?
If Trump would only take a firm, consistent position on the war, both sides would know where they stand and negotiate accordingly. Since he hasn’t, he gives hope to both the Russians and Ukrainians that he might, if manipulated carefully, come down completely on their side. It is that hope of ultimate victory that prolongs the war.