US President Donald Trump, according to the British newspaper The Telegraph, now considers Russian President Vladimir Putin to be a greater obstacle to achieving peace than Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
White House sources report that Trump tried a "carrot and stick" approach with Putin, but his options for concessions are exhausted. Trump was ready to offer Russia terms such as US recognition of Russia's control over annexed Crimea and occupied territories, and the removal of sanctions, potentially restoring Russia’s military power.
Putin, however, dismissed these proposals, seeking instead to prolong the conflict. Negotiations with the US are seen by the Kremlin as a way to buy time. According to new reports, Trump is starting to realize this tactic.
Additional pressure may come from a possible law in Congress to impose 500% tariffs on Russian oil imports in third countries. This could seriously impact not only Russia’s economy, but also those of nations that continue to purchase Russian oil — such as China, India, and Brazil.
The US is also demonstrating readiness to toughen sanctions and physically intervene against vessels transporting Russian oil, increasing shipment risks and influencing global markets.
In turn, Putin may escalate actions to pressure the West into negotiating on his terms. The further course of events will depend on both sides’ willingness to intensify pressure in 2026 and on how the international community reacts to the current geopolitical situation.
