The article criticizes Donald Trump's prioritization of a deal with Vladimir Putin over Ukrainian sovereignty and the transatlantic alliance. It highlights Trump's attacks on Zelenskyy and the US administration's snub of London peace talks as evidence of this.
Leaks suggest that a potential deal would involve the US recognizing Crimea as Russian territory, with Moscow offering little in return. Trump's focus is on ending the war for personal political gain rather than achieving a just resolution.
Putin is portrayed as a skilled negotiator who is playing a long game, capitalizing on Trump's eagerness for a quick deal. The article mentions Putin's strategic use of gestures like the Easter truce, and offering concessions on lands Russia doesn't control.
The US is reducing military aid to Ukraine, and intelligence support might follow. The article expresses concern about the possibility of a grotesquely one-sided deal that would embolden Russia's territorial ambitions elsewhere. The abrupt withdrawal of US officials from London talks reinforces fears that a US-brokered deal could be detrimental to Europe.
Ukraine is ready to negotiate but not to surrender, seeking to preserve its territorial integrity, even if a complete restoration is unlikely.