Newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are planning to meet next year.
The newspaper suggests that the primary topic of their talks will be the situation in Ukraine. The Washington Post, known for its ties to the Democratic Party, expresses both skepticism and concern about the potential outcomes of these negotiations.
A source within Russian diplomatic circles stated that the Kremlin has no intention of making compromises, citing the steady advance of Russian forces in eastern Ukraine and the absence of signs of an economic crisis.
Nevertheless, according to the same source, Moscow might demonstrate “flexibility” in its territorial demands regarding Ukraine in exchange for concessions related to the future framework of European security.
The publication suggests that the Kremlin aims to turn the talks into a prolonged process, seeking to establish a broader European security pact that would redefine spheres of influence. This could solidify Russia’s dominance over Ukraine, Georgia, and other post-Soviet states outside NATO. Such a scenario, the newspaper notes, could undermine European security and limit NATO’s role.