Ukraine's Ceasefire Proposal and Putin's Leverage
Ukraine's agreement to a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire has shifted the focus to Moscow's response and potential pressure from the Trump administration on Putin.
While questions about Putin's leverage over Trump have been frequent, the current situation raises the question of Trump's leverage over Putin.
Despite US Secretary of State Rubio's optimism, Putin seeks maximum advantage from ceasefire talks, believing Russia is winning the war. He sees a ceasefire as primarily benefiting Ukraine and desires "framework guarantees" from the US.
Trump's offer to Putin appears more carrot-based than stick-based, with limited impact from potential sanctions. The US could offer an end to banking sanctions and access to western technology, but Putin's long-term demands remain unchanged and are unlikely to be accepted by Ukraine's allies.
Trump's pressure on Ukraine may have convinced Putin of his weak leverage. This leaves increasing US military support to Ukraine as a potential lever, although it is likely Trump's least favored approach.
7 Comments
Habibi
I trust that Trump is acting in the best interests of the United States. He is a strong leader who knows how to deal with Putin.
ZmeeLove
We need to elect leaders who will stand up to Putin, not appease him.
Rolihlahla
We need to work towards a peaceful resolution to this conflict, but it must be a solution that is fair to all parties involved.
G P Floyd Jr
The US needs to be cautious about providing military aid to Ukraine. We don't want to escalate the conflict.
Martin L King
A ceasefire is a positive step towards ending this conflict. It's important to give peace a chance.
Donatello
This ceasefire is a betrayal of the Ukrainian people. We need to stand with them in their fight for freedom.
Leonardo
This is a time for unity, not division. We need to come together to support Ukraine and resist Russian aggression.