Trump and Putin have agreed to hold talks without Ukraine, according to media reports.
Trump and Putin agreed to negotiations without Ukraine - media reports
U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to initiate talks aimed at ending the war between Russia and Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not participate in the conversation, but Trump informed him of the agreements. At the same time, the U.S. administration dismissed key Ukrainian demands – the return of all occupied territories and security guarantees from NATO.
This is reported by the Financial Times.
The article states that the U.S. no longer views European security as a top priority, and Trump is proposing an early ceasefire without guarantees for Ukraine. This raises concerns in Kyiv, as it could lead to a frozen conflict. Meanwhile, the U.S. is not pressuring Ukraine to concede additional territory or change its leadership.
Putin seeks not just a ceasefire but an agreement that will ensure his military objectives, particularly a shift in the European security framework. However, the U.S. is not prepared to discuss such matters. Trump aims to swiftly conclude the war but will not pressure Ukraine for concessions, fearing negative political repercussions.
Russia holds the military initiative, but its successes are limited and costly. Despite fatigue, Ukraine continues its defense, maintaining control over part of the Kursk region and targeting Russian infrastructure. The Russian economy is under strain from sanctions.
When negotiations begin, Putin will have to decide whether he is willing to abandon his maximalist demands. He might agree to a ceasefire with a negotiation timetable, but if Ukraine remains independent and armed, it would be seen as his defeat. Should the peace initiative fail, Trump might even increase support for Ukraine.