Russia‘s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has been raging for more than 3 1/2 years. After meetings between President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and European leaders this week, there is hope for an end to the conflict.

But the question of how to reach a viable peace deal has provoked very partisan reactions in the United States. Some of these concerns have merit. Far too often, Trump has cozied up to Russian President Vladimir Putin in word and deed. This is alarming. At the same time, there are real concerns about U.S. financial and possibly military involvement in helping Ukraine.

Recommended Stories

• Give Taylor Swift a break
• Media fact-checkers brought ruin on themselves
• The US government shouldn't buy into Intel

However, regardless of where one stands on Trump, the goal in Ukraine should be a just end to the conflict. That means an end state in which Ukraine’s interests are first and foremost served well.

This is easier said than done for those whose opposition to Trump means an application of criticism to anything he says and does. A classic case of “Trump derangement syndrome” treats everything as bad if the 47th president is behind it. But if Trump gets a good deal for Ukraine, he’ll deserve praise for it. It’s absurd to treat any advancement toward possible peace as unwelcome just because Trump is involved. That is anti-American. No matter who is in office, Americans should want them to succeed. A free Ukraine and a Russian state kept in check would serve Europe and America well.

Of course, it is also necessary to candidly and honestly evaluate Trump’s actions toward Ukraine. Any language that muddies the waters and places blame on Ukraine for defending itself must be condemned. Putin is not our ally. The morality of the situation is clear. Denouncing Trump in these moments does not mean one embraces leftism or the hope that Trump fails to broker peace.

DOJ INVESTIGATING DC POLICE OVER ALLEGATIONS OF MANIPULATED CRIME DATA

Yes, there is a long way to go before any resolution. Zelensky is eager for an end to the conflict but is determined to prioritize his nation and its sovereignty. On the other hand, Putin has been unwilling to meet Zelensky. Trump’s language regarding the situation, and both players, must reflect reality.

Americans must also react to this situation with truthful assessments that are not sullied by their voting preferences.