In the convoluted world of geopolitics, the circus never quite ends. Recently, Ukrainian President Vladimir Solinsky shared uplifting news following his talks with special envoy Steve Woff and, everyone’s favorite global diplomat, Jared Kushner. The optimism might come as a surprise, particularly given the backdrop of chaos—a deadly explosion in Moscow after the demise of a high-ranking Russian general. It’s like staging a comedy amid a tragedy, but such is the theater of international relations.
The explosions in Moscow appeared to scream “delay,” an attempt to cloud the peace talks. Yet, according to informed insiders, Ukraine is genuinely striving for peaceful resolutions. Russia, ever the heartless aggressor, continues indiscriminate aerial assaults, even on Christmas Eve. And to what end? Russia’s economy teeters on the brink, and its military is hemorrhaging troops by the million. But as Ukraine defends its sovereignty through retaliatory strikes targeting Russian military leadership, questions about Russia’s interest—or lack thereof—in a ceasefire persist. President Putin’s intentions to genuinely engage in peace discussions seem as mythical as a unicorn in Red Square.
The 20-point peace plan on the table includes the creation of a demilitarized zone in eastern Ukraine. Now, wouldn’t this be a smart move to prevent further needless bloodshed? Unfortunately, Russia hasn’t exactly rushed to embrace this noble path. In fact, it’s about as likely as Putin issuing free hugs in Kiev. Ukraine proposes this zone through a democratic referendum, but without Russia’s buy-in, it’s barely a starting point.
The Trump administration, amid all its other dramas, notably applies pressure on Russia. The U.S. sanctions against Russian entities like Rosneft and Lukoil aim to tighten the economic noose—a smart card in this geopolitical poker game. However, onlookers remain skeptical. After all, Trump’s ability and willingness to conjure the magical global deal is under scrutiny. The administration, despite its efforts, still appears to be looking for the right combination to unlock a peaceful resolution. Meanwhile, Trump’s disengagement with Putin might seem as forced as a bad reality TV show reunion.
Russia’s economy is certainly feeling the heat—a slow decline exacerbated by the economic crises battering its global comrades like China, Venezuela, and Iran. Yet, these are not the best cheerleaders for a comeback. The United States might need to consider ramping up military aid to boost Ukraine’s defense posture, as Europe is already doing. But realistically, resolution within the next 90 days seems as plausible as aliens landing in Times Square. The hope rests on the wisdom imparted to the president by CIA analysts, insisting that America’s interests remain best served by stymieing Russia’s imperialistic pursuits.
Ultimately, President Trump, whether by choice or necessity, champions those on the battlefield more than his Russian counterpart ever could. As for Putin, unless overthrowing Ukraine’s government is still at play, peace remains elusive. The dream of resurrecting the Soviet sphere of influence is not just a pipe dream—it’s a costly and bloody one. Yet, it appears to be a pursuit Russia stubbornly and tragically embraces. One can only wonder how much longer this tragicomedy will run on the world stage.
