U.S.-Russia Negotiations Expected to Stall, Meeting Between…

U.S.-Russia negotiations are likely to stall in April and May, making a Trump-Putin meeting improbable, yet communication may continue. Political analyst Mikhail Neyzhmakov emphasizes the ongoing conflict’s persistence and suggests the potential for symbolic gestures. Trump’s domestic challenges could further diminish the chances of a face-to-face meeting while informing his rhetoric on foreign policy during his upcoming Saudi Arabia visit.

In the upcoming months, U.S.-Russia negotiations are expected to face stagnation, with minimal advancements on key issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite this, both nations may maintain active communication during this period. Russian political analyst Mikhail Neyzhmakov suggests that it’s premature to expect a halt in hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, as both sides hope that a passage of time may favor their respective positions.

Neyzhmakov notes that while the prospects for a ceasefire remain slim, symbolic gestures may occur, such as temporary de-escalation or prisoner exchanges, aimed at showcasing goodwill towards Washington. Regarding a potential meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin during Trump’s upcoming Saudi trip, Neyzhmakov mentions a statement by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicating no current plans for such a meeting; however, the word “currently” suggests possibilities could change.

There remains a slim chance of a Trump-Putin meeting in Riyadh, yet Neyzhmakov believes the likelihood is decreasing due to slow U.S.-Russia negotiations and changes in U.S. domestic politics. Increasing political challenges for Trump may lead him to adopt a tougher stance against Moscow, affecting his diplomatic interactions. Neyzhmakov emphasizes that while this rhetorical shift might not stop ongoing negotiations, it could postpone a face-to-face meeting.

Neyzhmakov points out the recent political setback for Trump’s team, highlighting the defeat of Brad Schimel in the Wisconsin Supreme Court election. He notes that internal political issues often lead leaders to project strength internationally, especially rhetorically. Moreover, Trump’s Saudi visit might focus on broader strategic discussions, including U.S. approaches to Iran and the Gaza situation rather than solely U.S.-Russia relations.

The U.S.-Russia talks are anticipated to stall in April and May, with minimal progress expected on significant issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While high-level meetings between the two leaders seem unlikely at the moment, symbolic diplomatic moves cannot be ruled out. Domestic political shifts in the U.S. may influence Trump’s international rhetoric, potentially delaying direct talks with Putin during his visit to Saudi Arabia. The meeting, if it occurs, may serve broader strategic objectives beyond U.S.-Russia dialogue.

Original Source: news.az