Following the cancellation of the meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin increased its information activity. Statements from Peskov, Lavrov, Dmitriev and others likely indicate Russia's dissatisfaction with this development. Although Lavrov emphasized a meeting should only happen if it delivers results, Moscow is clearly displeased with the pause in US-Russia dialogue.
Of particular interest was Kirill Dmitriev’s visit to Washington. This effort was intended to restart negotiations, but it failed—Dmitriev was labeled a propagandist in the US, with the White House rejecting his positions. In response, the Kremlin issued numerous public statements, apparently seeking to shift blame for the lack of progress onto Trump, echoing previous Russian information tactics.
Experts note a gradual shift in Moscow's position, especially regarding the frontline in Donbas. However, a clear diplomatic defeat in negotiations with the US prompted the Kremlin to revert to a tough rhetoric, making Lavrov the main spokesperson and negotiator on the issue.
For Putin, the stakes are economic—ongoing war and sanctions worsen Russia's domestic situation. Trump, while imposing some restrictions, allowed time for adaptation, yet the impact on Russian companies is already evident. A further challenge is reduced demand for Russian oil and gas from China and India, even as Europe remains a key buyer. In this context, sanctions are seen as the main leverage on Moscow.
In summary, the interview with Valeriy Klychok highlights how the political and economic situation around US-Russia dialogue remains unstable. Future developments will largely depend on US strategy, the Russian leadership’s response to sanctions, and global pressure.
