Today at 01:00
Zelenskyy-Trump-Putin negotiations – is that possible? Russian money frozen in German banks – can or cannot be used in favour of Ukraine? Russian gas deliveries to Europe – continue and never stopped, actually? After any possible negotiations and a ceasefire, should Ukraine be getting ready for another Russian attack?
We have discussed this with Andreas Umland – a skilled researcher at the Stockholm Centre for Eastern European Studies.
— Let’s discuss the relationship between Putin and Trump. Lex Friedman, in his interview with Zelensky, suggested that Zelensky, Putin, and Trump should meet after January 20th to negotiate a ceasefire and long-term peace. However, it seems Putin disregards signals from Trump and his team. Even with American diplomats addressing him respectfully, nothing constructive comes from Moscow—just escalation. Ukraine faces daily missile attacks. My question, Mr. Umland: do you think negotiations between Zelenskyy, Trump, and Putin are realistic?
— It depends on Trump’s advisors and their influence on him. Trump has leverage over both sides, especially Ukraine. However, significant pressure must be placed on Putin to reach an agreement acceptable to Ukraine. A ceasefire might be possible, but a lasting peace is unlikely at this stage.
— We’ll see how Trump’s advisors shape his approach. Moving on, Germany holds frozen Russian assets. What’s the political stance there on using these funds to support Ukraine?
— Public sentiment in Germany supports using the funds, but economic interests, like bankers fearing loss of trust in European banks, oppose it. The debate often focuses on legal concerns, but this money belongs to Russia, a state waging war. It should be used without hesitation.
— Exactly. Legal concerns seem misplaced here. If a dictator invades a country and deposits money in European banks, why worry about those banks’ reputations? Shifting topics, are Russian gas deliveries to Europe still ongoing?
— Yes, mainly through the TurkStream pipeline via the Black Sea. Some European countries argue that if they don’t buy Russian gas, it will be sold elsewhere, undermining sanctions. For example, Slovakia, heavily reliant on Russian gas, has threatened Ukraine’s energy supply due to halted deliveries. Many European countries still fail to grasp the realities of the war in Ukraine.
— True, and there’s no excuse for their ignorance now. Regarding negotiations, Ukrainians are certain we must prepare for another Russian attack. Aggression has never stopped and likely never will. Do you agree?
— Yes, especially in the lead-up to Trump’s inauguration. Russia may escalate attacks to strengthen its negotiation position. Ukraine must brace for potentially significant assaults in the coming weeks.
Read also: Gas Transit Halt Is Russia’s Grand Failure. Interview with Svitlana Romanko
