Vitaliy Portnikov analyzes the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which took place at the White House. President Trump, known for staging media events, this time discussed key issues of the Russia-Ukraine war and possible scenarios for future US-Ukraine cooperation.
The impact of recent phone calls between Trump and Russian President Putin on the US position in the Russia-Ukraine conflict is addressed. Portnikov emphasizes that Putin is trying to maintain the status quo to continue the war, while Trump demonstrates indecision regarding new sanctions and aid to Ukraine. Specific attention is given to American weapons supplies, such as Tomahawk missiles, and Zelensky’s proposal for a military exchange involving drones.
The article provides a detailed analysis of upcoming negotiations between the US, Russia, and Ukraine, as well as the risks and challenges for Ukraine’s security guarantees. The author notes the uncertainty of talks concerning NATO membership, the prospect of peacekeeping missions, and the independent development of Ukraine’s defense industry.
Economic cooperation issues between the US, Russia, and China are also covered, including the proposed tunnel between Russia and Alaska, discussed as a means of diversifying trade. The article compares the approaches of Trump, Biden, and previous US presidents towards Europe’s security and support for Ukraine.
Portnikov highlights that the meeting marked another attempt to define a strategy to end the war, though there is currently no real foundation for a quick resolution. The author urges readers to monitor further developments in US-Ukraine dialogue, as the position of the American leadership will determine the future security architecture of the European continent.
