**Trump’s Growing Impatience with Russia: A Shift in Negotiations**
As the war between Ukraine and Russia continues, US President Donald Trump is becoming increasingly impatient with Moscow. According to Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Trump is feeling pressure from European leaders to take a tougher stance against Russia.
Stubb made these comments after holding talks with Trump on May 17 and speaking with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 18. The Finnish leader noted that while Ukraine’s position remains strong, Russia has been trying to invade its neighbor for three years without making significant gains.
**A Shift in Negotiations?**
Stubb’s remarks suggest a shift in negotiations between the US and Russia. Trump had previously sought to broker a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, but his patience appears to be wearing thin. The Finnish president said that Zelensky remains patient and committed to finding a solution, while Trump is becoming more impulsive.
This change in approach may indicate that Trump is feeling pressure from European leaders to take a stronger stance against Russia. The US has imposed several rounds of sanctions on Russia, but the Kremlin’s continued stalling has yet to yield any significant concessions.
**The Upcoming Call Between Putin and Trump**
Stubb’s comments come ahead of a planned phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 19. Following this call, Trump plans to speak with Zelensky and other NATO leaders. The Finnish president urged Trump to hold a summit with both Zelensky and Putin to try and find a resolution.
The prisoner exchange, agreed upon during the failed peace talks in Istanbul, is seen as a positive sign by Stubb. However, he emphasized that more work needs to be done to bring about a ceasefire agreement.
**Russia’s Weaknesses**
Stubb also highlighted Russia’s weaknesses, pointing out that the country has not made significant gains in Ukraine despite three years of invasion. He also noted that Russia’s economy is weaker than it may seem.
European leaders want to show Trump that Ukraine’s position remains strong and that Russia has serious weaknesses. Stubb emphasized that this will help to put pressure on Moscow to agree to a ceasefire agreement.
**A Step Towards Peace?**
While the prisoner exchange is seen as a positive sign, it remains unclear whether it will lead to a broader ceasefire agreement. The upcoming call between Putin and Trump may provide more clarity, but for now, it seems that the negotiations are at an impasse.
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