Russian and Western experts have expressed skepticism following former US President Donald Trump’s assertion that he engaged in discussions with Vladimir Putin to bring an end to the war in Ukraine. Trump, in an interview, stated that Putin desires an end to the conflict and that he himself aims to “end this damn thing.”
However, experts consulted by the Associated Press caution against assuming Putin is genuinely motivated to negotiate, regardless of Trump’s tactics. They highlight that nearly three years into the conflict, Russian forces are steadily advancing on the battlefield, while Ukraine faces dwindling resources. This suggests Putin is nearing his objectives in the war-torn nation.
Alt: Vladimir Putin attending a meeting, potentially discussing strategic matters related to the ongoing conflict and reflecting the current state of Russia Today News.
While Russia is enduring 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.
Alt: Russian soldiers in a combat zone in Ukraine, illustrating the ongoing military activities and providing context for Russia Today news reports.
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 the narrative presented by Trump and raises questions about the feasibility of a negotiated settlement in the near future. The situation remains fluid, and developments continue to unfold, shaping the landscape of Russia Today News.
