On September 5, political analyst Ihor Irovych joined Valeriy Klychko, head of the Veza Center for Civic Analytics, to discuss the political situation regarding Ukraine. The discussion centered on Vladimir Putin’s statements following his trip to China and subsequent press conferences in Beijing and Russia’s Far East.
The experts noted that Russia has not completely abandoned the idea of negotiations with Ukraine, despite Putin’s sharp rhetoric suggesting otherwise. His current statements likely aim to set the stage for an upcoming conversation with Donald Trump or to strengthen his hand in ongoing diplomatic maneuvering.
Particular attention was given to Russia’s ties with China after Putin’s Beijing visit, plans for the “Power of Siberia 2” gas pipeline, and the ambiguous nature of Chinese support. The analysts cast doubt on Western commentary suggesting a breakthrough in Sino-Russian relations, arguing that China offers Russia mainly symbolic gestures rather than concrete commitments.
The conversation also addressed the anticipated Trump-Putin phone call, the US’s role in the war, and Trump’s position toward European leaders. Issues included sanctions, Europe’s imports of Russian oil and gas, and the double standards among some EU countries.
The discussion explored military aid to Ukraine, missile delivery, strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, and possible US steps, including the use of long-range missiles. The experts stressed that resolving the conflict would require sustained military and economic pressure on Russia. Politically, the decisive factor remains the US administration’s choices—though Ukraine continues to demonstrate agency in its own defense.
