Trump’s Talks Tilt Toward the Kremlin
- Trump Ukraine Peace Deal: Discussions to end the war span iconic locations, from the Kremlin to the White House. But what has emerged from these talks looks favorable to Russia.
- Former President Donald Trump has criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He has echoed Russian positions and hinted that Ukraine may need to surrender land and abandon its NATO ambitions.
- Even with this stance, no formal agreement has been reached.
Shifting Signals from Trump
- Despite showing alignment with Russia, Trump’s messages have turned unpredictable.
- Social media posts questioned whether Putin was manipulating him. Still, a firm peace plan has yet to emerge.
- On May 1, the U.S. signed a deal with Ukraine for access to its mineral resources—possibly tying continued military aid to American economic interests.
Optics Favor Moscow
- Washington is once again in direct talks with Moscow. That alone is a symbolic win for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
- Analysts say Russia is now seen as equal to the U.S. in global diplomacy. Reports claim the Trump administration discussed not just Ukraine, but also weapons control and even hockey matches with Putin.
- State media in Russia broadcasted this cooperation as part of a “new world structure.”
Key Concessions Echo Kremlin Demands
- Trump has said Crimea “will stay with Russia.” Reports of a draft peace plan showed Russia keeping other occupied areas.
- He also expressed doubts about Ukraine joining NATO.
- These points mirror long-standing Russian demands.
- Sam Greene of King’s College London said, “Is there any part of this that doesn’t look like a win for Russia? No.”
Still Just Rhetoric
- Experts caution that no terms are final.
- Ukraine insists it won’t give up land and demands strong security guarantees—possibly with peacekeepers.
- Russia rejects peacekeepers and insists Ukraine must demilitarize and abandon NATO plans. These demands remain far apart.
- Historian Sergey Radchenko said Ukraine won’t accept limits on its military. Without defense capability, a deal would be hard to accept.
Ceasefire or Stalling Tactic?
- This week, Putin announced a 72-hour ceasefire to begin May 8 for Russia’s Victory Day.
- Zelenskyy called the move manipulative and demanded a longer, immediate ceasefire.
- Some analysts believe Putin hopes to drag out the war while gaining advantages, especially if U.S. commitment fades.
What If the U.S. Backs Out?
- Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned the U.S. could leave peace talks if progress stalls.
- But walking away could hurt both sides. Russia’s markets have improved, anticipating resumed U.S. investment. A sudden withdrawal could trigger economic backlash.
- What remains unclear is whether Trump would still support Ukraine militarily after stepping back from talks.
- Sam Greene said the lack of clarity keeps both Ukraine and Russia uncertain about U.S. intentions.
Europe’s Role May Grow
- U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlighted the new mineral deal with Ukraine as a sign of long-term support.
- But if Trump normalizes ties with Russia and lifts sanctions, it would be a massive win for Putin—though not guaranteed.
Congressional sanctions tied to the war remain a hurdle.
Conclusion
- For now, the path to peace in Ukraine remains filled with uncertainty.
- Russia may be gaining in image and influence, but no concrete deal exists.
- Both sides still hold positions that may be impossible to reconcile.
Source: AP News
