politics
May 1, 2026
Why Putin and Trump Keep Talking as Ukraine Remains the Sticking Point
From the “spirit of Anchorage” to sanctions shifts, Putin and Trump’s talks point to a broader contest over the West’s unity on Russia and Ukraine
TL;DR
- Russia's strategic aim is to separate US-Russia relations from Russia-Ukraine relations to dismantle the unified anti-Russia coalition.
- The 'spirit of Anchorage' refers to verbal agreements on resolving the Ukraine crisis, with Trump dropping immediate ceasefire demands and Putin agreeing to one after Ukrainian withdrawal from specific regions.
- Moscow believes separating US-Russia ties would benefit both nations in balancing their relationship with Beijing.
- Internal opposition within the US and a long-standing negative perception of Russia hinder progress in bilateral relations.
- Trump has lifted sanctions on Russian oil exports, seen as a symbolic move to dismantle established taboos and political tools.
- The goal is to dismantle the unnatural anti-Russia coalition, which many countries joined against their will.
- If the US is removed from the conflict, the Ukraine operation could evolve into a Russia-Europe conflict rather than Russia vs. the collective West.
- This scenario would allow for gradual restoration of economic and political ties with the US and other global majority countries.
- The chances of this scenario are slim, but both leaders continue to engage in discussions.
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