Trump's Russian outreach: A risk to Ukraine peace efforts
Donald Trump is striving for closer ties with Russia, even at the expense of peace in Ukraine. This is the opinion of Steve Rosenberg, a BBC correspondent in Moscow. The journalist analysed the negotiations with Russia following Putin's statement about continuing peace talks.
What do you need to know?
- Peace negotiations: Despite discussions of peace, Russia refuses to agree to an unconditional ceasefire and has no plans to return occupied territories to Ukraine.
- Trump's stance: U.S. President Donald Trump is inclined towards talks with Russia, which Moscow interprets as support for its position.
- International reactions: European leaders set an ultimatum for Putin, which was ignored, and sanctions were postponed.
What are the effects of Trump's policy towards Russia?
Steve Rosenberg, BBC correspondent in Moscow, observes that Russia gains confidence from Donald Trump's stance. Despite ongoing peace talks, Russia refuses to agree to an unconditional ceasefire and shows no intention of returning occupied territories to Ukraine.
"Donald Trump's position could not be more favourable for Moscow," wrote Kommersant.
Will Russia and Ukraine reach an agreement?
During talks in Istanbul, Russia sent a low-level delegation that rejected the idea of a long-term ceasefire. Nonetheless, President Trump stated that progress had been made.
- Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations towards a ceasefire, and, more importantly, bring an END to the war - declared the U.S. President.
Russia continues to refuse to sign a peace treaty with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasising that his term has expired. - Is Russia prepared to sign a peace treaty with President Vladimir Zelensky? - Rosenberg asked Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
- You're putting the cart before the horse - Lavrov replied. - First, a treaty must exist, and once it is agreed upon, then we will decide such matters. However, President Vladimir Zelensky – as President of Russia Vladimir Putin has repeatedly affirmed – does not possess legitimacy. This is acknowledged even within Ukraine itself - the diplomat stated.
Is the chance for peace diminishing?
"Whatever happens with Ukraine peace talks, Moscow seems determined to forge a new partnership with America," concludes Steve Rosenberg.
So far, the Kremlin has been able to reject or avoid any pressure to make compromises and concessions regarding the war with Ukraine. It seems confident that it will be able to continue doing so, states the BBC correspondent in Moscow.
