On "News Factory," host Yuriy Bibik spoke with analyst Valeriy Klochok about the prospects of peace talks between Russia and the United States and the broader international context.
Klochok emphasized that meetings between Russian and US representatives remain uncertain. Recent statements from the Russian side indicate that there is no final agreement between Putin and Trump regarding a possible summit. Russia is attempting to show that it controls the negotiation process and is not yielding to US pressure.
China's increased activity is an additional factor: the opening of a new Arctic trade route and the signing of a rare earth minerals supply agreement between the US and Australia. China is expanding its influence in the Russian region, adding tension in relations with the US.
The European Union has made political statements about ceasing Russian gas transit after 2028. Experts note that decreasing energy dependence on Russia is part of Europe's preparation for possible escalation scenarios.
The likelihood of ending the war soon is also discussed. President Zelensky has mentioned approaching the war's conclusion, but experts believe the process will be lengthy and depend on the positions of Trump, Putin, and international partners.
The discussion also touched on Russian intelligence information manipulations regarding summit security and possible attempts to change the meeting's location.