April 1 marks the anniversary of Bucha’s liberation by the Ukrainian army, a symbol of the brutality of Russian occupation. The mass repression of Kyiv region civilians highlighted deliberate cruelty by Russian forces, aimed at intimidating and displacing Ukrainians.
Vitaly Portnikov points out a sharp shift in the international context: in 2022, partnership between Russia and the US seemed unimaginable, but now US ultraconservatives support Russia’s narrative. American politicians lobby for Russia’s interests in the EU and oppose the transfer of frozen Russian assets to Ukraine, citing Trump’s peace initiatives.
The article discusses Donald Trump’s policy: his loyalty to Vladimir Putin, inclusion of Alexander Lukashenko in a peace council, and formal dialogue between the US, Ukraine, and Russia, which so far has not led to a war resolution. There is a clear lack of effective US tools to influence Russia, as well as increased confidence from Putin.
Portnikov analyzes Russian ultimatums—such as demanding a Ukrainian withdrawal from parts of Donetsk—and Moscow’s broader aims: destruction of Ukrainian statehood and reassertion of Russian dominance in Central and Eastern Europe.
The piece also covers Zelensky’s efforts to maintain US support and avoid accusations of being unwilling to negotiate, as well as the importance of talks even when no direct results are achieved.
Security guarantees are scrutinized: only NATO membership could offer Ukraine a reliable shield, while other assurances are seen as ineffective. The article draws parallels with conflicts in the Middle East and beyond, placing the war in Ukraine as part of a larger global contest for influence.
The conclusion is that Ukraine’s strategy should focus on depleting Russia’s resources and developing its own military-industrial capacity. The future depends on assertive, proactive positioning on the world stage.
