**Russian Ultimatum: “Negotiations” on Ukraine’s Capitulation**
A two-hour conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump has left many experts wondering if Russia is truly interested in negotiating an end to the war with Ukraine. Despite Putin’s optimistic public statements, the outcome of the talks seems all too familiar – Russia wants Ukraine to surrender, but on its own terms.
**Russia’s Demands Remain the Same**
Putin described the conversation with Trump as “substantive, frank, and very useful,” and immediately thanked him for what he claimed was the resumption of direct talks with Kyiv. However, his words ring hollow when considered against Russia’s demands from the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022. The Russians have long insisted on recognition of its control over partially occupied territories, a position that is unacceptable to Ukraine and its Western allies.
**No Ceasefire Without Agreements**
After the phone conversation, Putin made it clear that a ceasefire is only possible after reaching “appropriate agreements.” This means that any truce proposed by the EU and the US will not be considered. He alluded to the development of a possible memorandum with Ukraine that would “define the principles of settlement,” but this seems little more than a veiled attempt to legitimize Russia’s occupation.
**Experts Unimpressed**
Experts widely agree that Russia’s war against Ukraine is driven by Moscow’s goal to establish de facto control over Ukraine by overthrowing its pro-Western government and imposing a Kremlin-aligned regime. Putin’s words about eliminating the root causes of this crisis are nothing more than a thinly veiled attempt to justify Russia’s aggression.
**Trump’s Rosy View**
Meanwhile, Trump took a far rosier view of the conversation. He claimed that Russia and Ukraine would “immediately” begin negotiations for a full cessation of the war, and that he had informed European leaders and President Zelenskyy about this. However, his optimism seems misplaced in light of Putin’s clear ultimatum.
**Unlimited Potential… for Russia**
Trump also said Russia wants to launch large-scale trade with the US after the war, and that Ukraine could become “a great beneficiary on trade” as part of its rebuilding efforts. However, experts will be watching closely to see if this is more than just a thinly veiled attempt by Russia to legitimize its occupation.
**The Reality Check**
In conclusion, while Putin’s words may have been optimistic, the outcome of the conversation feels all too familiar – Russia wants Ukraine to surrender, but on its own terms. The international community will be watching closely to see if this is more than just a veiled attempt by Russia to legitimize its occupation.
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