The situation regarding peace talks around Ukraine remains complex. According to The New York Times, President Volodymyr Zelensky is skeptical about the progress, with agreements between the US and Ukraine on territorial issues—including Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant—still unresolved. While a draft security guarantee plan is ready, key questions remain open.
Amid advances by Russian forces—such as the capture of Siversk—Kyiv’s negotiating position is weakening, as evidenced by mandatory evacuation orders in several regions. Experts point out that the attention of the US administration, particularly Donald Trump, is diverted to Venezuela, which could negatively affect Ukraine's negotiation prospects.
In discussions, it is noted that despite simplified narratives about a division of the world among major powers, Trump’s approach is more nuanced. The Venezuela situation is being employed by the US as an additional bargaining chip in negotiations with global players, exerting pressure on Russia and China and shaping the international political balance.
China and Russia have jointly condemned US actions in Venezuela, though their regional interests do not always align. China is seen as leveraging the situation to balance its interests with the US, while Russia perceives the current dynamics as a weakening of its own position.
Analysts highlight that the format of modern warfare has changed: Russian forces have a mobilization advantage, and battles rely heavily on manpower. Europe is lagging in readiness for such warfare, casting doubt on NATO’s unity.
Overall, the escalation in Venezuela and the US focus on the Western Hemisphere significantly impact the Ukraine-Russia talks, reducing Washington’s moderating role and presenting new challenges for Kyiv.
