In an interview with journalist Vitaly Portnikov, President Volodymyr Zelensky's claim that Donald Trump is pressing Ukraine to concede Donbas to Russia for the sake of ending the war is examined. Portnikov notes that such ideas are being articulated more openly on the international stage.
Portnikov also highlights that the US is lifting sanctions from certain Russian ships, despite the recent efficacy of Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian oil terminals, which led to a 43% reduction in oil exports. Proposals to lift sanctions and halt further attacks are linked to attempts to avoid escalation of the oil and gas crisis amid the ongoing US and Israeli conflict with Iran.
Portnikov compares the US–Iran situation to the Russia–Ukraine war: just as Russia embarked on war with exaggerated expectations and state degradation, the US finds itself facing similarly unpredictable outcomes. He emphasizes that overwhelming military advantage does not ensure quick or decisive victories.
Regarding security guarantees for Ukraine in exchange for territorial concessions, Portnikov stresses that true guarantees are only achievable through NATO membership, as other formats cannot provide effective protection. He also casts doubt on the reliability of even NATO guarantees in light of Trump’s statements about the alliance.
Other topics discussed include Russia’s use of war to intensify domestic totalitarianism, restrict the internet, and the extension of propaganda abroad, particularly in Western countries by leveraging financial resources and cooperation with local media.
In conclusion, Portnikov argues that prolonging the war depends on Western support for Ukraine, while Russia works to fragment the West. The successful scenario for Ukraine is the preservation of its statehood, even if territorial questions remain unresolved for now. He underlines that only a shared sense of national purpose and unified goals can ensure the survival of the state in a turbulent world situation.
