Is Trump Able to Shape Peace Talks as Russia Readies for Continued War?.

Expert Analysis on the War in Ukraine

According to UATV: During a broadcast on the FREEДОМ television channel, Dr. Liudmyla Pokrovshchuk shared her assessment of Russia's intentions to prolong its war against Ukraine, despite public statements suggesting openness to peace. She pointed out that Russian President Vladimir Putin continues to speak of 'liberating' Donbas and other Ukrainian territories, which indicates a lack of genuine willingness to engage in peace negotiations.

Pokrovshchuk, a specialist in foreign and domestic policy, emphasized that U.S. President Donald Trump could play a pivotal role in future talks between Russia and Ukraine. She described Trump as a 'deal-maker,' noting that once he sees a favorable arrangement with Putin, he will be able to bring him to the negotiating table.

“Trump is a man of deals, a president of deals. When it becomes advantageous for him to strike a deal with Putin, that is when he will sit him down at the negotiation table.”

Liudmyla Pokrovshchuk

Additionally, Russian opposition politician Natalia Pelevina, a member of the political council of the Parnas party, observed that over 26 years in power, Putin has built a system that is now working against him. This highlights the internal complexities within Russia and the challenges its political leadership faces amid the war with Ukraine.

International Factors and Their Impact

As a result, the situation remains tense, and how events unfold will largely depend on international dynamics, especially the role of the United States and its president.

The experts' comments underscore that while Russia may claim it is ready for peace, its actual intentions are still in doubt. The trajectory of the conflict in Ukraine and Donbas may hinge on external pressure, particularly from Washington, which could act as a mediator in negotiations. Trump's involvement in these talks could be a decisive element, as his transactional approach may shift the conflict's momentum.