Trump's Return: A Boost for Putin's Agenda in Ukraine

The recent developments in U.S.-Russia relations spotlight how President Trump's policies may inadvertently serve Moscow's agenda, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

In a period marked by significant geopolitical shifts, President Vladimir V. Putin seems to be reaping unexpected benefits from U.S. President Donald Trump’s actions during the early days of his new term. If Putin had a wish list, the gifts from Washington would be substantial: pressure on Ukraine to cede territory, potential sanctions relief, and a public implication of absolution for the invasion of Ukraine.

As Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff engages in discussions in Moscow this week, the vision for peace emerging from these talks may unwittingly favor Russia's territorial claims, undermining international law while simultaneously inhibiting Ukraine's NATO aspirations. It appears not only the immediate negotiations grant favor to Putin, but Trump's broader agenda rides this wave as well.

Significantly, Trump’s moves have arguably contributed to fraying relationships with long-standing U.S. allies. His administration has taken steps to dismantle various institutions that have historically irked Moscow, specifically the Voice of America and the National Endowment for Democracy. Furthermore, Trump’s recent decisions appear to restrict the U.S.'s capability to confront Russian disinformation, election meddling, and other forms of geopolitical aggression.

While Russia finds itself exempt from tariffs that Trump has placed on a host of other countries, Ukraine faces harsher trade terms. Additionally, sources indicate that lifting sanctions on Russia's contentious Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline is on the table, a surprising shift from Trump's previous condemnations of the project.

This intricate web of actions suggests a substantial alignment of U.S. policy with the aims of the Kremlin, raising alarm about the implications for American foreign interests and the ongoing strife in Ukraine.