Fears in Moscow: US‑Ukraine deal pressures Kremlin strategy
There is growing concern in the Kremlin about a potential pro-Ukrainian shift in Donald Trump's policy, reports "The Washington Post". These concerns arose after the signing of an economic partnership agreement between the United States and Ukraine.
On Thursday, the United States and Ukraine signed an agreement to establish the U.S.-Ukraine Investment Fund for Reconstruction.
Russian deputies criticise the agreement, calling it "another major step toward the colonisation of Ukraine". In the corridors of Russian power, there is growing fear that closer U.S.-Ukraine relations may close the window of opportunity for a favourable peace agreement for the Kremlin.
Is Russia losing its advantage? "Pressure on Putin has increased"
"The Washington Post" emphasises that until now, Russia had the upper hand in peace negotiations, especially after the dispute between Trump and Zelensky at the White House.
A Russian official, who wished to remain anonymous, admitted in an interview with journalists that the pressure on Vladimir Putin has increased. He is now expected to at least pretend to show willingness to make concessions.
Dilemmas of the Russian elite
In the Russian elite, there is an ongoing debate between those who believe that economic problems are a reason to make concessions to the USA, and those who think that the war should continue as long as Russia has a military advantage.
Kremlin-affiliated political analyst Sergei Markov believes that the rapprochement between the USA and Ukraine increases the likelihood that Russia will continue military actions to gain more favourable peace terms on the battlefield.
Markov stated that if Russia secures military gains during the spring, summer, and autumn, Western countries may become more inclined to make concessions, thereby increasing the likelihood of a peace agreement. He added that Russia cannot accept a ceasefire that would allow Ukraine time to rearm and rebuild its forces.
