Title: U.S. Concessions to Putin Could Weaken NATO and Invite Russian Aggression, Says Telegraph
Article:
In an analysis that could add fuel to the ongoing geopolitical tensions, the UK-based daily, The Telegraph, warns that any concessions made to Russian President Vladimir Putin by the U.S. and Europe could seriously undermine NATO’s strength and effectively ‘invite’ Russia to invade more countries, including NATO allies.
President-elect Donald Trump, who has expressed his desire to end the war in Ukraine, is eyed with skepticism by many experts. The U.S.-based media outlet points out that a swift resolution to the conflict would require significant concessions from Moscow, something that seems improbable given the entrenchment of both camps over the past three years.
"Only a fool would want the war in Ukraine to continue, but only a fool would want it to end by forcing President Volodymyr Zelensky to bow before Vladimir Putin," the article concludes.
Since announcing his candidacy in May 2023, Trump has been vocal about his intent to stop the bloodshed in Ukraine, proposing meetings with both Putin and Zelensky. However, since his election victory on November 5, Trump has not shared the specifics of his promised peace initiative.
Russie has repeatedly indicated its willingness to engage in talks, but only on its terms, with suggestions to hold them in Slovakia – a country dependent on Russian gas and often sympathetic to Moscow, making it an unwanted intermediary for other parties.
In contrast, Zelensky maintains that retaking occupied territories, now approximately one-fifth of Ukraine’s sovereign land, can only be achieved diplomatically, despite the substantial efforts required. Although Ukraine continues to suffer losses, its resilience is remarkable, notes the publication.
Challenges and Risks
The Telegraph highlights several challenges and risks associated with Trump’s initiative. These include the questionable ability of the U.S. to strong-arm Putin into concessions, the potential strain on NATO’s unity if seen as favorable to Russia, and the precarious precedent set if Putin’s current aggression goes unchallenged.
Furthermore, the sanctions imposed on Russian elites are inadequate, with Russian oligarchs maintaining their wealth, allowing the Kremlin to finance the war effort. Despite economic hardships faced by ordinary Russians, the shadow fleet of Russian tankers continues to export oil, keeping the regime afloat.
In a separate development, The Washington Post reported that Ukrainian soldiers on the frontline are increasingly open to the idea of negotiations with Russia. Many Ukrainian defenders believe that even if active combat ceases by 2025, Russia could still launch a new offensive in the future.
Ukrainian drone operator and medic, Egor Firsov, recently shared his views, advising against placing too much stock in the role of the newly elected U.S. President, Donald Trump, in future negotiations with Russia.
