lipflip – Vladimir Putin appears unfazed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threats over the war in Ukraine. Analysts and former Kremlin officials say the Russian president had anticipated a breakdown in relations, even after early signs of renewed cooperation during Trump’s second term.
Last week, Trump announced a significant military aid package for Ukraine and warned of sweeping sanctions against Russia if no peace deal is reached within 50 days. This marked a major departure from his earlier attempts to engage Putin personally. According to insiders, Putin had expected tougher U.S. actions regardless of Trump’s rhetoric.
Putin has yet to comment publicly, and Kremlin officials have refrained from direct criticism. Behind closed doors, however, frustration mixed with resignation is growing. Russian political analyst Tatiana Stanovaya noted that expectations for improved ties always came with the assumption of continuing U.S. military support for Ukraine.
Trump’s outreach included multiple phone calls and public praise, leading many in Moscow to hope for a shift in U.S. policy. A confrontation between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had also fueled this belief. But that hope quickly faded when Trump accused Putin of ignoring personal diplomacy and responded with military support for Kyiv.
Some Kremlin insiders believe Putin misjudged Trump’s reaction to Russian airstrikes that followed their phone conversations. A former high-level official called the bombings a strategic error, suggesting they may have alienated Trump. Despite this, many in Moscow remain confident that Trump is emotional and could still be swayed.
Russia Intensifies Offensive as Hopes for U.S. Rapprochement Fade
Russia has ramped up its offensive in Ukraine, dismissing Trump’s 50-day ultimatum and continuing its push in the eastern region. Drone swarms and intensified aerial attacks on urban centers have become a nightly pattern. Russian forces are reportedly inching closer to the key city of Pokrovsk.
Putin’s strategy appears to focus on delivering visible battlefield gains before any serious peace talks occur. Sources familiar with his thinking say he views the invasion as existential and remains unwilling to appear weak under pressure. Political analyst Fyodor Lukyanov described Trump’s ultimatum as the end of the initial phase of U.S.-Russia relations under the current administration.
Read More : Microsoft Shuts Down Video Store, Users Urged to Act
Among Russia’s political elite, those who favored stronger U.S. ties have lost influence. Early optimism that Trump’s admiration for Putin might lead to sanctions relief and economic revival has faded. For ordinary Russians, polls show rising support for ending the war. However, any peace deal would require Ukraine to accept Russia’s territorial gains and limit its military. Putin has outlined sweeping conditions for a ceasefire. These include Ukraine’s neutrality, NATO’s withdrawal from the region, and recognition of occupied territories. With over 100,000 Russian casualties, Kremlin insiders say Putin feels he cannot return without a clear military victory.
A more confrontational faction within the Russian government is now gaining ground. Influential voices like Alexander Dugin argue that the U.S. is not a neutral player but a direct party to the war. He warned that time is running out for Washington to change course. For now, Moscow sees no irreversible break in relations with Trump. But with Russia intensifying its campaign and the U.S. hardening its stance, hopes for a quick diplomatic solution are fading