Russian and Western experts have expressed skepticism towards former US President Donald Trump’s claim that he spoke with Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine. In an interview, Trump stated that Putin wants the conflict to end and that he himself intends to “end this damn thing.”
However, experts consulted by the Associated Press warn against assuming Putin’s genuine desire for negotiation, regardless of Trump’s tactics. They highlight that almost three years into the conflict, Russian forces are steadily gaining ground, while Ukraine’s resources are dwindling. This suggests Putin is closer to achieving his objectives in the war-torn nation.
While Russia is suffering heavy casualties and economic sanctions, experts point out Putin’s vast manpower reserves and Russia’s economic resilience. Furthermore, with dissent suppressed domestically, Putin faces no internal pressure to cease hostilities.
Fyodor Lukyanov, head of Moscow’s Council for Foreign and Defence Policies, who recently hosted a forum featuring Putin, asserts that the Western perception of Putin’s eagerness for a resolution is inaccurate. He emphasizes that Putin is not driven by a need to reach an agreement and end the war. This perspective challenges Trump’s narrative and raises questions about the possibility of a negotiated settlement soon. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing developments shaping the landscape of news from Russia.