President Vladimir Putin of Russia is undeterred by U.S. President Trump's expressed concerns and continues to escalate military operations in Ukraine. Sources close to the Kremlin reveal that Putin is convinced of Russia's growing battlefield advantage and anticipates a potential collapse of Ukrainian defenses in the coming months.
Despite the prospect of increased U.S. pressure, analysts maintain that Putin perceives no need to cease combat or make concessions without significant offerings from Ukraine. According to Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, Putin is unwilling to compromise his ambitions in Ukraine to foster better relations with Trump.
This hardline stance marks a notable change from earlier this year when Trump, who had a friendly disposition towards the Kremlin, sought a reconciliation with Russia. During his campaign, Trump aimed to resolve the Ukraine conflict swiftly, which many believed could lead to sanctions relief and improved economic ties for Russia. Putin appeared to have viewed Trump's election as an opportunity to negotiate a cease-fire that would allow for Russian territorial gains. However, events have taken a different trajectory as the conflict persists.
