In this interview, renowned publicist Vitaliy Portnikov analyzes the recent meetings between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Donald Trump, and Vladimir Putin, and their impact on possible peace negotiations.
Portnikov highlights that Trump is willing to talk only when there is something concrete, and his discussions with Zelensky and Putin indicate actual negotiation processes. He stresses the multi-vector approach of the Russian government, the possibility of several scenarios, and the risk that Russia could use peace initiatives to prolong the war.
He explains in detail the situation regarding potential compromises around Donbas, the role of demilitarized or free economic zones, possible legal procedures, and the positions of Ukrainian society and government. Special attention is paid to the prospects of a referendum, conducting elections during the war, constitutional restrictions, and threats to the legitimacy of future Ukrainian authorities.
Portnikov also distinguishes the positions of the US, Europe, and Russia, problems related to security guarantees for Ukraine, and challenges linked to a possible new Trump presidency. The analysis covers Western interests, Putin’s internal motivations, and the risks of a protracted war for all parties.
The expert also addresses Russia’s future, its democratic potential, the role of imperial consciousness, and complex relations between national groups in the region.
