Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump are set to meet to discuss the Ukraine conflict, aiming to ease tensions and potentially lift sanctions on Russia. Military expert Joakim Paasikivi highlights the strategic importance for both leaders, with Putin seeking economic relief and Trump positioning himself as a peacemaker. The meeting underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics and the high stakes involved for both nations.
Why Putin's Meeting with Trump is Crucial
Why Putin's Meeting with Trump is Crucial
Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump are planning to meet to discuss the war in Ukraine, as announced by the Kremlin. According to military expert Joakim Paasikivi, one of the reasons is that Russia wants to avoid harsh sanctions.
The meeting, proposed by the US, is seen as an opportunity for Russia to maintain good relations with Trump. Paasikivi notes that Russia is eager to appear as an active participant in negotiations to avoid strong sanctions. The proposal for the meeting came from Trump, and Russia had to respond to avoid further straining relations.
However, whether this meeting will lead to progress in negotiations is uncertain, but it could be seen as an important first step.
For Putin, it is crucial that the talks happen directly with Trump, as Russia views the US as the ultimate power in the West, according to Paasikivi.
Putin Seeks Sanction Relief – US Aims for Peace
What does Putin hope to achieve from the meeting? Paasikivi points to several factors.
Putin wants sanction relief. Despite claims of economic resilience, Russia's economy is under pressure. He also aims to regain some control over the situation and possibly establish a ceasefire to halt drone attacks, which have been problematic for Russia.
Russia may present various options, but the question is how much Putin can leverage his past rapport with Trump.
For the US, there are potential gains from a summit. Paasikivi suggests that Trump sees an opportunity to position himself as a peacemaker.
Trump wants credit for achieving a peace or ceasefire agreement, having previously expressed a desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. This drives his ambition to be seen as a mediator.
"It's Now Also Trump's War"
Paasikivi emphasizes that while the personal relationship between Trump and Putin may play a role, US involvement in Europe has increased significantly. This limits Trump's ability to distance himself from the conflict or blame others.
With Trump's strong engagement, it has become "Trump's war" as well. Previously, he viewed it as Russia and Europe's issue, but Western countries, including Nordic nations, are financing and supporting US aid to Ukraine.
This increased involvement raises the stakes for Trump, making it harder for him to withdraw or shift blame.
According to sources, Trump wants a subsequent meeting involving Ukraine's President Zelensky. What are the chances of this happening?
We need to see how the first meeting goes. Putin's stance has been that Zelensky is not a legitimate president, which would be a prestige loss, but everything has a price, so it's not impossible. However, the outcome of the first meeting is crucial.
The exact timing of the meeting is unclear, but the location is reportedly decided. Paasikivi believes it will be outside the US and Russia.
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