This article discusses the potential peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, and how US President Donald Trump’s involvement may shape the negotiations. Here are some key points:
1. **Potential envoys**: Boris Epstein is being considered as a potential envoy for the peace talks, but no appointments have been finalized yet.
2. **Trump’s role**: Despite the presence of other negotiators, all peace talk-related decisions are expected to be taken single-handedly by Trump.
3. **Influence on Trump**: People influencing Trump vary, and it is not exclusive to his clique, including figures like Elon Musk.
4. **Baltic States involvement**: Representatives from the Baltic States have been visiting Trump at Mar-a-lago, and Poland is also actively engaging in behind-the-scenes talks.
5. **Ukraine’s strategy**: Ukraine believes that the best strategy is to let Trump experience firsthand what it’s like to strike deals with Russia, and then wait for Putin to break any potential agreements.
6. **Security guarantees**: Ukraine is focused on securing security guarantees from the West, rather than pushing for a peace deal.
7. **Trump’s pro-Israel picks**: Trump’s administration picks are strong pro-Israel advocates, which may be seen as a hidden win for Ukraine, given their shared “axis of evil” with Russia and Iran.
8. **Ukraine-Israel ties**: Israel has offered to have Zelenskyy visit anytime, which could help Ukraine bond ties with the US key ally in the Middle East.
9. **European burden sharing**: Trump’s peace plan would require Europe to shoulder significant costs for peacekeeping and maintenance, which may be a true test of its commitment to Ukraine beyond rhetoric.
Overall, the article suggests that Ukraine is taking a cautious approach to Trump’s involvement in peace talks, focusing on securing security guarantees from the West rather than pushing for a peace deal. The article also highlights the potential benefits of Ukraine-Israel ties and the need for Europe to take more responsibility for peacekeeping and maintenance costs.