The article discusses the importance of US support in shaping peace in Ukraine, with a focus on the ongoing negotiations. Former director of policy planning at the US State Department, Richard Haas, is quoted as saying that a full ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia is a realistic prospect if the US provides meaningful long-term military and intelligence support to Ukraine.
Haas emphasizes that any deal cannot be based on trusting Moscow’s intentions, but rather must be built on strength so that Putin determines that continued war will not achieve Russia’s objectives in Ukraine. He also notes that Europe‘s role becomes more important if the US chooses to reduce or end its support of Ukraine.
The article also mentions concerns about the administration of President Donald Trump‘s support for Ukraine and the competence of presidential appointees. It highlights the Kremlin’s ongoing attacks on Ukraine, including a recent drone attack in Dnipro that killed four people and injured at least 24.
The article quotes various experts, including Garnder and Landsbergis, who express concerns about the US handling of negotiations with Russia and the lack of European unity in supporting Ukraine. They highlight the need for Europe to step up and provide a cohesive force as a real deterrent against further Russian aggression.
Overall, the article suggests that the biggest deciding factor in how peace will be shaped in Ukraine is how the US handles the ongoing negotiations, with the US providing meaningful support to Ukraine being crucial in achieving a full ceasefire.