Putin's Demands
What are the concerns about Trump's approach to Russia-Ukraine negotiations?
Ukrainians are concerned that President Trump is approaching negotiations with Russia with a friendlier stance toward Russian interests than Ukrainian ones. Nancy Cordes highlights that Trump failed to acknowledge Russia's responsibility for creating the conflict, referring to it as 'barbarism' without mentioning that Russia initiated the hostilities. There are mounting worries that Trump might favor what Russians want from peace talks rather than supporting Ukraine's negotiation positions. This approach could potentially undermine Ukraine's leverage in any settlement discussions. These concerns are shared not only by Ukraine but also by US allies in Europe, and Trump's recent remarks did nothing to address or alleviate these apprehensions.
Watch clip answer (00:44m)
CBS News
02:49 - 03:33
What is Putin demanding from Ukraine in the peace negotiations?
Putin has demanded that Ukraine withdraw its troops from regions that Russia annexed in September 2022. This territorial demand appears to be a key condition in ongoing peace negotiations. In addition to the territorial concessions, Putin may also be seeking the removal of all or nearly all sanctions that were imposed on Russia. These demands highlight Russia's objectives in the negotiations, which could significantly impact Ukraine's territorial integrity and the international sanctions regime against Russia.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)
WION
02:05 - 02:19
What role can the US play in deterring further aggression in the Ukraine conflict?
According to North American Editor Sarah Smith, the US can provide critical deterrence to Putin that would prevent him from launching further attacks. This deterrence capability is positioned as essential in maintaining regional stability and containing Russian aggression in Ukraine. The analysis suggests that without strong US involvement and commitment to deterrence, Putin may feel emboldened to continue or escalate military actions. This perspective underscores the significant role that American foreign policy and military posture plays in the geopolitical dynamics of the Ukraine conflict.
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BBC News
12:51 - 13:00
What is Russia's position on NATO peacekeeping forces in Ukraine?
Russia firmly rejects any NATO peacekeeping forces in Ukraine under any peace deal. As stated by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov following high-level talks with the United States, Russia will not accept such involvement. Lavrov explained that President Putin has repeatedly emphasized that NATO expansion and the takeover of Ukraine by the North Atlantic alliance poses a direct threat to Russian interests. Russia views such NATO presence as a direct threat to its sovereignty, making it a non-negotiable position in any peace discussions regarding Ukraine.
Watch clip answer (00:29m)
WION
01:41 - 02:10
What is President Trump's strategy towards Russia regarding the Ukraine war?
According to Kurt Volker, former US Ambassador to NATO, President Trump is employing a dual approach of 'sticks and carrots' with Russia. The strategy includes warnings of further sanctions and continued pressure if Putin doesn't stop the war in Ukraine, while offering incentives if Russia does end the conflict. Volker believes Trump will continue this combined approach for some time to see if it can make any progress in resolving the situation. This balanced strategy aims to create both deterrence through potential consequences and motivation through possible benefits to influence Russia's actions in Ukraine.
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Al Jazeera English
04:53 - 05:12
Why is Russia insisting on immediate elections in Ukraine?
According to Igor Novikov, Russia's demand for immediate elections in Ukraine is a strategic attempt to conquer the country through political manipulation rather than military force. With half of Ukraine's population abroad and the other half on the front lines, the chaotic situation would enable Russia to easily stage the election process. This would allow them to install a Russian puppet government, effectively taking control of Ukraine without needing to continue the military campaign. Novikov explains this as Russia seeking 'an easier manner' to conquer Ukraine without having to 'return with tanks and weapons in two years time.'
Watch clip answer (00:21m)
MSNBC
04:23 - 04:44