“Putin is not ready for compromises”. The kremlin avoids confrontation with Trump but maintains an ultimatum-like stance — political analyst
The kremlin’s reaction to Donald Trump’s ultimatums is extremely cautious: putin is trying to avoid a new escalation in relations with the U.S., but at the same time is not ready for compromises. This was stated in a comment to OstroV by Doctor of Philosophy and political expert Andrii Horodnytskyi.
“The kremlin’s reaction is very cautious: the main thing is not to anger Trump even more. We see almost complete disregard for his threats, including those regarding nuclear escalation. The same goes for sanctions”, - the expert explained.
According to him, moscow is demonstrating a formal willingness to negotiate, but only under one condition — Ukraine’s capitulation.
“Russia continues its rhetoric, saying, ‘we will stick to our mission and goals’. And Trump, apparently, understands what putin wants. He was clearly told: russia is ready to cooperate if Trump forces Ukraine to surrender. And that is putin’s only condition”, - Horodnytskyi emphasized.
At the same time, the political scientist notes, Trump did not go for this — because Ukraine did not make concessions, and under current circumstances, this is impossible.
“Trump didn’t go for it precisely because Ukraine is not ready to surrender. And under current conditions, it’s simply impossible. For a number of objective reasons. Putin is not ready to agree even to minimal compromises right now”, - the expert believes.
Horodnytskyi also commented on the possible levers of influence that Trump may use against russia. In his opinion, it’s about a long-term and systematic process — more economic-political than purely sanction-based.
“It is necessary to systematically destroy russia’s economy, gradually, step by step. For example, not through loud embargoes, but via restrictions on specific goods that were not previously banned. Including — from EU and NATO countries that are still trading with russia”, - he explained.
The expert also provided specific figures: “Turkey, if I’m not mistaken, spends about €3.9 billion a month on purchasing russian goods. In effect, it is financing the war”.
In conclusion, he emphasized that without radical pressure on moscow, including a full trade embargo, it will be extremely difficult to change the situation.
“There must be a full trade embargo. This is necessary to send a clear signal to the kremlin: the war must be stopped”, - Horodnytskyi concluded.