A Fortnight to Decide: Trump’s High-Pressure Play for Ukraine Peace

In a classic high-pressure play, President Donald Trump has given all parties involved in the Ukraine conflict a fortnight to make progress or face a decisive move from Washington. His administration will choose between crippling economic sanctions on Russia or a complete withdrawal from mediation efforts.
This two-week period will be a crucial test for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump is pushing for a direct meeting between the two leaders, a step seen as essential for any lasting peace settlement. His recent meetings with both have set the stage for this diplomatic challenge.
As the pressure mounted, Putin offered an unexpected compliment to his US counterpart. He referred to President Trump as a “light at the end of the tunnel,” expressing hope that under his leadership, the historically poor relations between the US and Russia could be repaired. This signal from Moscow indicates a potential willingness to engage.
However, Putin’s speech was not purely conciliatory. He also stressed the concept of sovereignty as being existential for Russia, contrasting its position with that of Western Europe. This philosophical underpinning will likely inform Russia’s negotiating stance as it responds to Trump’s powerful ultimatum.