According to the publication, the idea is that the Kremlin will attempt to consolidate control over part of the already occupied Ukrainian territories, while promising to withdraw troops from other regions. In the U.S. and Europe, there are fears that such an initiative is not a step towards peace but a way to increase pressure on Trump, who is known for his desire for 'deals at any cost'.
WSJ emphasizes that Trump's disappointment with Putin began to manifest itself at the NATO summit in June when he called Moscow's refusal to end the war 'a mistake'. Their conversation on July 3, which lasted less than an hour, was noticeably shorter and cooler compared to previous contacts. One of Trump's administration officials acknowledged: 'there was a lack of the warmth with which they usually communicated with each other'.
Possible consequences
Although Putin allegedly expressed a readiness to end the war during personal conversations, Washington notes - his actions say otherwise. The analytical material from WSJ states: 'Trump, seeking an agreement, may urge Ukraine and allies to accept this proposal'.
Analysts believe that such a scenario is beneficial for the Kremlin: in the event of refusal from Kyiv and European countries, Trump may use this as a reason to accuse Ukraine of prolonging the war.