This broadcast by Vitaliy Portnikov focuses on the negotiation process around the Russia-Ukraine war, following the publication of the so-called "Trump peace plan" in the media. It was revealed that this plan was drafted by Russian officials and handed to the US in an attempt to avoid sanctions against Russian companies. For Ukraine, the process is a serious challenge: there are no obvious signs of peace, while the US and European partners continue to put pressure to maintain cooperation with Ukraine without confronting the Trump administration.
Despite diplomatic maneuvering and meetings, key differences remain: Ukraine refuses territorial concessions, Russia does not wish to cease fire. The West, especially the US, continues its sanction policy while providing financial and intelligence support to Ukraine. In this context, President Zelensky is meeting with Emmanuel Macron in Paris for the second time recently to coordinate positions on US pressure, France's role in talks with Trump, and upcoming contacts with China.
The fundamental issues remain unresolved: territorial questions (the Ukrainian army is not ready to leave the defended territories), sources of funding for Ukraine's recovery, and real security guarantees, since NATO membership is blocked. Alternative security guarantees have been floated, but remain unreliable. As Portnikov notes, the only real guarantee is the gradual exhaustion of Russia, which can curb future aggression.
Negotiations continue, with "shuttle diplomacy" becoming more dynamic. The West seeks compromise, but disagreements among allies and Russia's tough stance hinder real peace. Ultimately, today's state of negotiations reflects the major geopolitical challenges facing Ukraine in its war with Russia.
