Independent analysts in Russia warn that the Kremlin’s conditions for ending hostilities—calling for Ukraine to withdraw its forces from Donbas, abandon NATO ambitions, and grant special status to Russian language and the Russian Orthodox Church—are unacceptable to Kyiv. Moscow delays a summit with President Zelensky, relies on fear and force, and faces accusations of escalating strikes on civilian targets, while President Trump’s close ties to Putin appear limited.
Russia’s Demands and the Kremlin’s Stance
The Kremlin has reiterated for weeks that Ukraine must pull back troops from Donbas, forgo NATO aspirations, and grant special status to the Russian language and the Russian Orthodox Church. Kyiv deems these conditions unacceptable, and Russian independent commentators note that Moscow is not rushing to arrange a summit between Putin and Zelensky. Meanwhile, U.S. President Biden aims to limit involvement until a trilateral meeting with Russia, Ukraine, and the United States is scheduled.
Trump’s Relationship with Putin
Russian opposition figure Gary Kasparov points out that Trump remains overly dependent on Putin. Kasparov states that there is no indication Trump will pressure him, noting that throughout his presidency the only person Trump has never spoken ill of is Vladimir Putin.
Russia’s Use of Fear, Coercion and Force
Journalists observe that as diplomatic efforts intensify, Russian attacks on civilian targets increase. Kyiv repeatedly declares that Russia knows only fear, coercion, and force, according to the president’s advisor. These attacks target areas near EU and NATO borders, including incursions into Polish and Lithuanian territories.
Zelensky Accuses Russia of Avoiding Talks
President Zelensky criticizes Russia for evading a necessary meeting between the two leaders, despite U.S. efforts to organize a summit. He cites heavy shelling over the night and claims that Russian forces strike points close to EU and NATO borders, even penetrating Polish and Lithuanian airspace. These incidents, he argues, demonstrate Russia’s disregard for diplomatic engagement.
Source: Gazeta,
