Former US Army on Trump's Negotiations with Russia: Real Estate Guys Want a Deal.

According to ТСН: The participants of the negotiating group with Russia, the special representative of the US President Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, are "real estate guys" who seek to strike a deal and quickly leave, without considering the strategic consequences.

Expert Opinion

This opinion was expressed by former US Army commander in Europe, military expert Ben Hodges. He emphasizes that the pressure from international partners on Ukraine, rather than on Russia, will not bring sustainable peace.

"Only Ukraine has to decide whether it is ready to exchange its sovereign territory. And I do not agree that pressure from the US is only exerted on Ukraine to make concessions. When I see Mr. Witkoff and Mr. Kushner talking to President Putin, it does not inspire confidence. Because these guys are real estate people. They want to strike a deal and get out of there," said Hodges.

Position of Strength

Hodges warned that the Russian dictator never abides by agreements. In his opinion, the only way to communicate with Russia is from a position of strength, firmness, and refusal to yield to its demands.

"Unfortunately, US Secretary of State Mr. Rubio has put all the pressure on Ukraine to make concessions. I do not think this is the way to sustainable, just peace. Unless Europe or the US is willing to place troops there to guarantee it. And for now, I do not see that. But again, all the pressure, all the risk lies on Ukraine's shoulders. Therefore, I feel uncomfortable saying that Ukraine should not accept a deal, because it is Ukrainians who pay the price. And I think the decision should be made by the Ukrainian people," noted the American military.

Possibility of Just Peace

Hodges believes that a just peace is only possible with Russia's defeat and its return to its own borders, as well as the West's (US or Europe) readiness to station its troops in Ukraine to guarantee security. Currently, he does not see the West's readiness for such a step.

It is worth recalling that US President Donald Trump stated that there are "good chances" for a peaceful agreement.

For Ukraine, the issue of peace talks remains extremely relevant. As the expert notes, any decision must be made exclusively by the Ukrainian side, as it bears the main burden of the conflict. The international community, for its part, should support Ukraine rather than pressure its leadership on compromise issues. The situation continues to remain complex, and the possibility of achieving just peace will depend on many factors, including the West's readiness to actively intervene in the conflict.