The long-term goal may be to create a negotiating format between Trump, Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
By Giuseppe SARCINA
US President Donald Trump is hardening his stance towards Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, at a time when domestic pressure in the US due to fuel prices and war costs is increasing.
This move is linked to two objectives: the attempt to limit political losses in the midterm elections and the aim of bringing Washington closer to Moscow, with the prospect of a broader agreement between the US, Russia and China.
Domestically, gasoline and oil prices are a sensitive issue for the US administration, as they directly affect the lives of citizens, transportation and agriculture. An agreement on oil supplies from Russia could be presented by Trump as an attempt to increase supply in the market and reduce pressure on prices. However, its real impact remains uncertain and does not guarantee immediate cost reductions for American consumers.
On the international front, the rapprochement with Vladimir Putin marks a significant shift in how Washington might handle the war in Ukraine. If the US administration seeks economic and political agreements with Moscow, it could put greater pressure on Kiev to accept compromises. This would weaken Zelensky’s negotiating position, especially if American support becomes more conditional.
Another consequence could be a rift with European allies. European states have invested politically and economically in supporting Ukraine and limiting Russian energy revenues. A Washington-Moscow deal on hydrocarbon exports could create uncertainty about the effectiveness of sanctions and the sustainability of Western strategy toward Russia.
The long-term goal could be to create a negotiating format between Trump, Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Such a dialogue would give the three powers the opportunity to discuss key issues of global security and the economy directly, while Europe risks remaining in a secondary role. However, the idea of ​​such an agreement remains an interpretation of Trump’s intentions and not proof that a common pact has been reached.
In essence, the political blow to Zelensky could be part of a strategy that combines Trump’s electoral interests with an attempt to change relations between the great powers. The outcome will depend on the real impact of the energy deals, the reaction of the US Congress, the stance of Europe and Ukraine’s willingness to accept possible terms of negotiations. (Corriere della Sera)