What does Putin hope to achieve in peace talks with Trump?

Ivana Stradner, a fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, believes that Moscow sees potential in peace talks to achieve its long-standing goal of subjugating Ukraine, rather than reaching a genuine compromise. The Kremlin’s continued maximalist demands indicate these intentions. Putin has repeatedly insisted that Ukraine must cede territory and abandon any hope of joining NATO. The Russian dictator argues that any deal must be based on the draft agreement negotiated in Istanbul in the spring of 2022.

“The Kremlin seeks to consolidate its gains on the battlefield, leaving Ukraine vulnerable to future aggression,” Stradner says.

Putin’s goal of dominating Ukraine will not change. He sees it as fundamental to Russia’s place in the world and his own legacy.

Given this, the expert advises the new American president to focus on steps to strengthen the US and Ukraine’s levers of influence. Trump should impose more sanctions, provide Ukraine with more weapons, and not succumb to Moscow’s deception.