**Putin’s Game of Deception: Why He Avoids Direct Talks with Zelenskyy**
As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy waits in Turkiye for peace talks that Russian ruler Vladimir Putin seems determined to avoid, a Swedish economist offers a simple explanation. Anders Åslund believes that Putin prefers negotiating with people he can manipulate.
**The Manipulator’s M.O.**
According to Åslund, Putin has a long history of dealing with individuals who are easily swayed by his charm and charisma. The Swedish economist points out that the Russian ruler has had success in negotiating with US President Donald Trump, whom he claims is always willing to do his bidding. “Trump obeys Putin all the time,” Åslund quips.
**A Pattern of Avoidance**
The Kremlin’s recent dismissal of a 30-day ceasefire initiative and its proposal for new talks in Istanbul starting May 15th are seen as a deliberate attempt by Putin to avoid direct negotiations with Zelenskyy. Despite Zelenskyy’s public commitment to waiting for Putin in Turkiye, the Kremlin has yet to confirm the Russian president’s attendance.
**A Past Encounter that Haunts Putin**
Åslund notes that the only direct meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy took place in Paris in December 2019. The Swedish economist believes that this encounter was a turning point for Putin, as he realized that Zelenskyy was not someone who could be easily manipulated.
**A Game of Deception**
In his sharp assessment of Russia’s diplomatic stance, Åslund concludes that Putin is deliberately avoiding direct talks with Zelenskyy because the Ukrainian leader outsmarted him in their past meeting. By proposing new negotiations without confirming Putin’s attendance, the Kremlin is buying time and maintaining a sense of control over the situation.
Read More @ euromaidanpress.com
