Zelensky Says Putin ‘Needs Trump,’ May Offer De-Escalation Before Winter

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine believes Russian President Vladimir Putin may be influenced by former US President Donald Trump to de-escalate the ongoing war, as reported by Axios on September 7. This belief stems from a recent discussion between Zelensky and senior US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner during talks in Kyiv.

Zelensky stated that Putin "needs" Trump and is unlikely to antagonize him ahead of winter. He suggests that Russia views the approaching winter as an opportunity to weaken Ukraine, after which Moscow might launch a renewed assault on infrastructure, leaving Ukraine more vulnerable. Zelensky affirmed that Kyiv has already reached its limit for concessions and that any settlement would necessitate firm security guarantees along with economic support.

Amidst this, Putin continues to insist on his own terms for peace, particularly Ukraine surrendering the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, citing Moscow's battlefield victories, which independent analysts have debunked. Zelensky also pointed out Ukraine's ability to retaliate against Russia's aggression, for example, by blocking their oil and gas exports following attacks on their electricity grid.

American envoys informed Zelensky that Russia is open to negotiations, despite Moscow's increased aggression. Zelensky reported "substantial progress" during the weekend meetings, including planning for further trilateral talks. Washington's strategy now aims to reopen formal talks and secure informal arrangements to avert escalation during the winter.

The US is also planning a separate winter aid package for Ukraine, which includes LNG and steps for de-escalation.