US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are jointly criticizing European nations for the lack of progress in Ukraine peace efforts, with Trump specifically urging Europe to halt purchases of Russian oil and increase pressure on China. This alignment highlights the stalled diplomacy following their summit in Alaska and underscores the challenges in achieving a ceasefire.
The criticism emerged after Trump’s call with European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on September 4, where he faulted Europe for not doing enough to support peace initiatives. Trump emphasized that European countries must stop buying Russian oil, which he claims funds the war, and should economically pressure China for its backing of Russia. This call came amid growing frustration over the stagnant peace process, with Trump previously setting deadlines that have been ignored.
Trump’s stance appears contradictory, as he is not imposing sanctions on China himself due to ongoing trade talks, and he has similarly criticized India for purchasing Russian oil, damaging strategic relationships. His approach reflects an erratic diplomacy that has puzzled allies and adversaries alike, with little consistency in his demands or actions regarding the Ukraine conflict.
Meanwhile, Russia is intensifying its efforts to drive a wedge between NATO allies, with Putin meeting leaders like Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and accusing Europe of paranoia over alleged plans to attack. Putin denied any Russian intention to attack other countries, despite his forces’ invasions of Ukraine in 2014 and 2022, and warned Europe not to interfere with his diplomacy with Trump.
There is minimal progress on the peace front, with no signs of a meeting between Putin and Zelensky, despite earlier White House predictions. Russia has also opposed any deployment of foreign troops to Ukraine as part of a peace deal, further complicating efforts. Ukraine’s allies worry that Putin might orchestrate a confrontation in bilateral talks to blame Zelensky for sabotaging the process.
On a slightly positive note, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 countries have pledged contributions to a potential peacekeeping force if a ceasefire is finalized. This initiative, discussed during the call with Trump, includes plans for European troops in Ukraine and an “American safety net” for security guarantees, with the US open to a limited role post-peace deal.
However, the overall situation remains deadlocked, with Trump’s deadlines passing without action and his diplomacy perceived as inconsistent. The blame game between key players exacerbates the uncertainty, leaving Ukraine and its allies anxious about the future of the conflict and the prospects for a lasting peace.
The ongoing stalemate underscores the complexities of international relations and the difficulty in bridging divides between major powers, with finger-pointing prevailing over collaborative solutions.