Trump changes strategy regarding Putin: why peace with Ukraine is postponed again.

According to ТСН: US President Donald Trump is radically changing his policy towards the Kremlin, moving from the promised 'quick peace in 24 hours' to an overt demonstrative use of force.

Political scientist Vadim Denisenko notes this in his reflections on Facebook.

The signal that Putin 'swallowed'

The latest actions of the Trump administration indicate the end of the phase of 'encouragement' for Moscow. The order to detain two ships linked to Russia was a direct check of the Kremlin.

“Trump raised the stakes, understanding that Putin would not respond. And Putin kept silent. It seems that Trump was explained: the dictator is simply leading him by the nose, and the continuation of soft policy only undermines the ratings of the US president.”

Denisenko believes that Trump finds himself in a 'win-win' situation:

1. If Putin gets scared - Trump will become the 'peacemaker of Europe'.

2. If Putin does not make concessions - Trump will appear as a fighter against autocracy.

Lindsey Graham's bill: an economic noose for oil

An important tool of pressure has been the bill of Senator Lindsey Graham, which has received Trump's support. This law provides for strict sanctions against countries that continue to buy Russian oil.

Why is peace postponed again?

Despite active actions from Washington, one should not expect a quick end to the war. Denisenko highlights several reasons:

• Waiting tactic: Putin has 'hidden' and is waiting to see if Trump has the resolve to continue the pressure.

• Lack of trump cards: Trump currently lacks effective tools to make the Kremlin abandon its claims.

• Chinese factor: The US is not yet touching Chinese ships, initially trying to isolate Russia from India and Brazil.

“A quick peace is almost impossible. Trump will offer Putin to return to negotiations in a few months, but whether he will accept them depends on the level of pain from new sanctions.”

According to the analyst, the real 'game in essence' between the US and China, which could significantly affect Russia's fate, will begin closer to April, when a meeting of the leaders of both superpowers is scheduled.

It should be noted that the US seized an oil tanker under the Russian flag. The vessel, known as Bella-1, attempted to evade the maritime blockade of American sanction tankers and escape from the attempt of the US Coast Guard to board it.

These events indicate that the political situation between the US and Russia is becoming increasingly tense. With the strengthening of sanctions and demonstration of force, Washington is clearly trying to change the dynamics in relations with Moscow. Observing the Kremlin's behavior under new challenges may determine the further steps and tactics of both sides in the near future.