The United States is increasingly realising that Vladimir Putin is misleading Washington and acting in his own interests. Former US Treasury Secretary Besent states that Putin deceives President Trump and fails to honour agreements made during talks in Alaska.
President Donald Trump is preparing an address in response to Putin’s actions. Besent emphasises that, following Putin’s promises to reduce aggression against Ukraine, Russian forces have intensified attacks, breaking previous commitments.
Meanwhile, Russia is deepening its cooperation with China—introducing visa-free travel and discussing the "Power of Siberia 2" gas pipeline. Despite official rhetoric about friendship, relations remain pragmatic and driven by shared interests.
Russia is holding talks with China and India, signalling the formation of a new geopolitical alliance. Simultaneously, the Russian Duma is making fresh claims on Ukrainian territory. France and the UK are preparing support measures for Ukrainians—extending protection for refugees and creating additional hospital capacity for the wounded.
Western states are reassessing their strategies concerning Russia and China. The New York Times and Washington Post are publishing analyses on Ukrainian military technologies and the prospects for peace.
The author highlights ongoing volunteer fundraising for the Ukrainian military, underlining the importance of public support. There is particular focus on the supply of vehicles, drones and technical assistance to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The main conclusion: Putin is raising the stakes while the West must formulate a tougher response. The future will be decided among the major global players—the US, China, Russia, Europe and Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukrainian society continues to actively support the military through volunteering.
