Trump's pivotal calls: Peace or pressure in Russia-Ukraine talks
The battle between Russia and Ukraine, along with their allies, is currently being fought not on the battlefield, but for the attention of U.S. President Donald Trump.
CNN reports that Trump is increasingly impatient with the lack of progress towards peace.
The upcoming phone discussions are crucial. A call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled for Monday. Before this event, Trump is expected to speak with European leaders. CNN emphasizes that Trump's opinion on the conflict may hinge on whom he speaks to last about it. After the call with Putin, Trump is set to call Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Both Moscow and Kyiv are trying to convince Trump that the other side is the barrier to achieving peace. CNN notes that during the conversation with Trump, Putin will have his full attention, which he might use to present his proposals.
Two possible scenarios
The government in Kyiv is concerned that Trump and Putin might decide on their own peace plan, which could be imposed on Ukraine. There is a risk that the U.S. may try to force Ukraine to accept Russian terms under the threat of withdrawing military and economic support.
On the other hand, Trump could pressure Putin, as the Kremlin does not want an angry U.S. president to increase support for Ukrainian military actions. Even though Russia and Ukraine are unwilling to compromise, the talks could reveal how far apart both sides of the conflict are.
