In his commentary, Vitaliy Portnikov examines the prospects for resuming the diplomatic process after the end of the Russia-Ukraine war amid Donald Trump's recent statements. Trump said Ukrainian President Zelensky would have to make a deal with Russia, sparking renewed debate on the conditions for ending the war and the role of the US in the process.
Trump has repeatedly promised to end the war quickly but is now forced to admit the situation's complexity and the lack of response from the Russian leadership. Putin, for his part, showcases a lack of international isolation and seeks support from the Global South, using peace talk suggestions to delay the conflict and stave off further sanctions.
Portnikov stresses that currently, there are no real prospects for a peace agreement, since Moscow does not see talks with Kyiv as a path to ending the conflict, and Trump's proposals mainly serve to preserve a status quo advantageous to Russia.
The analysis also closely examines the energy factor: sanctions on Russian oil, the roles of China and India in supporting Russia's economy by purchasing its oil products, and the European response to Trump's suggestions. Portnikov notes that even with new trade restrictions, China and India are unlikely to halt Russian energy imports, as it matches their economic and political interests.
The broadcast also discusses the security of European countries, NATO's potential, the key role of drones in contemporary warfare, and the need for continued military support for Ukraine. The expert emphasizes that Western military support remains the main factor for ending the war—not simply a shift in political leadership in the US or EU.
