Donald Trump’s efforts to negotiate with Vladimir Putin on the Ukraine conflict have been met with skepticism by the Kremlin. The Kremlin views Trump’s threat of increased economic pressure as hollow, citing Russia’s resilience to sanctions and its continued military advances in Ukraine, where it now controls nearly one-fifth of the country. Kremlin insiders see Trump’s warning as posturing and remain open to dialogue but emphasize negotiations must consider “new territorial realities,” signaling Moscow’s unwillingness to cede gains. Analysts say Trump’s approach risks pushing Russia further from the negotiating table.
