During the summer break of the "New Countdown" program, the host spoke with renowned journalist and political commentator Vitaliy Portnikov. The main focus was Trump's high-profile statements: his intention to end the conflict in Ukraine within 50 days, or, if not, to impose tough sanctions against Russia.
Expert opinions are divided. Some see this as increasing pressure on Putin, others as a carte blanche for further aggression. Portnikov emphasized that it's not the deadlines but the real ability of the US to influence the Kremlin's course that will determine developments. He noted that no US president has a "magic wand" to force Russia to end the war in a matter of weeks.
Portnikov stressed that Ukraine remains part of the collective West, and military aid from the US and Europe is crucial: without it, Ukraine could not have effectively defended itself and preserved its territorial integrity for years. Commenting on Trump's proposal for a new arms financing model, where European countries would cover the costs, the expert called this a compromise solution, since direct US support is dwindling.
The journalist also notes that even the harshest sanctions produce a delayed effect. Their impact is felt through reduced revenues, shrinking budgets, and limiting Russia's mobilization capacity—but they don’t end the war instantly. It is particularly difficult to influence China, a key buyer of Russian energy.
Separate attention is given to the possible supply of Ukrainian drones to the US. Portnikov is skeptical about such deals while Ukraine itself urgently needs all its defense resources. According to him, the personal relationship between world leaders has critical importance in today's person-centered political regimes.
The expert concluded that Trump's deadlines guarantee no real change. The conflict’s future remains uncertain, with potential for both protracted confrontation and unexpected scenarios. Portnikov underlined that the Kremlin’s planning often relies on improvised diplomatic moves, and Western unity remains a vital factor in supporting Ukraine.