Putin's Ukraine Strategy Unlikely to Succeed, Could Push Trump to Act

Russian President Vladimir Putin is escalating his attacks on Ukraine, despite previous indications to President Donald Trump that a peaceful resolution might be possible. However, a former Trump advisor believes Putin's current strategy is unlikely to succeed.

Retired General H.R. McMaster, who served as Trump's national security advisor, stated that Putin's approach is a calculated attempt to project strength and reshape his image. He believes Putin is acting aggressively because he perceives a lack of resolve in the West to continue supporting Ukraine.

The increase in Russian aggression coincides with a pause in some weapons shipments from the Pentagon to Ukraine. This delay has been attributed to concerns about dwindling stockpiles and the potential need for these resources for U.S. self-defense.

McMaster argues that despite Putin's attempts to appear strong, the Russian leader is actually in a weaker position than he portrays. He points to economic challenges, including declining oil prices and rising military expenses, as factors impacting Russia's economy. McMaster suggests that these circumstances could lead Trump to adopt a more assertive stance if peace negotiations continue to fail.

Last month, Trump suggested a different approach to ceasefire negotiations, comparing Russia and Ukraine to children fighting. He proposed that the U.S. step back from negotiations until both countries are ready to compromise.

Some leaders disagree with this strategy, emphasizing the importance of U.S. support for the Ukrainian resistance. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has stressed that Ukraine cannot prevail without American aid, and that a larger, more powerful Russia closer to Europe could pose a greater risk to U.S. interests.