In recent days, indications have emerged about possible deals between the Kremlin and Donald Trump's team regarding the settlement of the war in Ukraine. The Polish newspaper Onet published what it claims are Trump's proposals. These include a ceasefire in Ukraine, de facto recognition of Russian-controlled territories through a delayed status for several years, removal of most sanctions imposed on Russia, and eventual resumption of energy cooperation such as gas and oil imports to Europe.
Key points of these proposals lack guarantees on halting military assistance to Ukraine or promises not to expand NATO, demands Moscow has made repeatedly. Russia reportedly did not receive any commitment to end U.S. military support for Ukraine, but appears to generally accept this stance. Diplomatic gestures from the Kremlin are seen as efforts to appease Trump and secure advantageous geopolitical terms.
Some sources, including Ukrainian officials, deny that such radical concessions were voiced by Western representatives in negotiations. Furthermore, an in-person meeting between Putin and Trump is considered by the Kremlin to be pivotal in achieving its aims: keeping Ukraine outside NATO, preventing future NATO expansion, and eventually returning Ukraine to Russia’s sphere of influence through internal turmoil.
Observers point out that China is also interested in prolonging the Ukraine conflict, seeking to lower U.S. military readiness before a possible invasion of Taiwan. Russia and China continue to demonstrate military cooperation, with recent joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan.
The West and the United States remain cautious toward Kremlin proposals: The Trump administration reportedly is not rushing into direct talks, waiting for more concrete steps from Moscow; meanwhile, the White House insists on a Putin-Zelensky meeting before any Trump-Putin talks.
The situation remains uncertain: Geopolitical maneuvering continues, the objectives of all sides differ, and the effectiveness of any agreements or the roles of China and the US in a political settlement remain open questions.
