Despite a surge in U.S. business overtures—including sanctions waivers for Russian diesel and talks over Lukoil’s assets—President Vladimir Putin shows no willingness to compromise on Ukraine. Analysts argue that financial inducements do not align with Putin’s core goals, which include limiting Ukraine’s military and blocking NATO membership. Upcoming peace talks in the UAE, led by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will address cease-fires and territorial disputes.
However, experts like Eric Green stress that Putin prioritizes political and security leverage over economic gain. Meanwhile, Russia faces staggering troop losses—estimated between 390,000 and 450,000—yet Moscow persists, betting on Ukrainian vulnerability and weakening European support. With far-right parties gaining ground in France and Germany, the transatlantic coalition backing Ukraine is showing signs of strain.
Source: New York Times Business · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing