Russian President Vladimir Putin is considering a proposal to recognize Russian control over part of the occupied Ukrainian territories in exchange for the withdrawal of troops from other regions of Ukraine, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing a senior European diplomat and Ukrainian statesman, News.bg reports.
According to the sources, US President Donald Trump, who is striving for a quick peace agreement, may urge Kiev and its allies to accept such an offer from Moscow. However, Ukraine and European leaders are expected to categorically reject this plan, since it de facto legitimizes the Russian occupation of part of Ukrainian territory.
A Ukrainian representative commented to the WSJ that such a scenario would be in favor of the Kremlin. After Kiev's refusal, Trump, who according to the publication shows little interest in the details of the peace process, may blame Ukraine for the continuation of hostilities and cut off intelligence and military support for the country.
The publication recalls that Trump has already taken a similar step earlier this year, temporarily freezing aid to Ukraine. If the situation repeats itself, the United States may withdraw from the diplomatic process altogether, leaving Moscow and Kiev to continue what Trump often calls "Biden's war."