This past week even Donald Trump has publicly questioned whether Vladimir Putin can be trusted to keep his promises as a leader. He’s convinced now that the Russian president is no “straight shooter.” Trump has promised to impose additional sanctions on Russia. This warning comes at a time when public opinion is shifting on the war in Ukraine and the growing need for a ceasefire. At the same time, the situation remains complex, with Kyiv expressing skepticism about Trump’s promises and his lack of military aid to Ukraine since taking office.
During a two-hour phone call with Putin, Trump proposed immediate negotiations, which he believes could lead to a resolution of the conflict. He has been all but silent on Ukraine. He’s never clearly articulated his hope that Ukraine should win the war. That’s caused concern among some to question his steadfastness defending Kyiv. Through it all, food prices have spiked as well, creating a new level of economic stress as the war rages on.
Doubts Over Putin’s Intentions
Trump’s perception of Putin has taken quite the 180, and it’s concerning many. He is implying that perhaps, just maybe, Russia should not always be expected to play straight with everyone in negotiations. He stated, “I used to talk to him about it. I said, ‘You can’t do it. You’re not gonna do it.’ I could see that he wanted it … I got along with him great. He liked me. I liked him.” This is the kind of clear-eyed admission that belies Trump’s repeated assertions that he has long understood the depth of Putin’s ambitions.
Despite this sudden skepticism, the former president has little to show for his advocacy combined with skepticism early on from Trump to mean it. Since entering office he hasn’t approved a single package of new military aid. Critics are quick to point out this as a failure to support our allies when they need us the most. Trump’s hesitance to declare a clear stance on Ukraine’s victory adds to the uncertainty surrounding U.S. foreign policy in the region.
“Nothing’s going to happen until Putin and I get together.” – Donald Trump
In fact, Trump’s approach is very much based on the power of personal diplomacy. He’s personally contacted Putin and he’s encouraged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to seek dialogue as negotiations started in Turkey. It’s entirely questionable whether or not these types of negotiations will produce salvation. Zelenskyy’s offer for a meeting was declined by Putin, leading many analysts to question the viability of Trump’s proposed approach.
Economic Implications Amid Rising Food Prices
Beyond geopolitics, economics is a driving force here. The annual rate of food price increases spiked 2.8% this month after a 2.6% increase in April. This inflationary trend was deeply concerning to consumers and lawmakers alike. American families have faced severe economic hardship due to rising costs. A new and uncontrolled war has exacerbated supply chains worldwide.
The connection between increasing food prices and the Ukraine war should not be downplayed. As a result, many analysts contend that conflicts and consequent disruptions have worsened what was already a troublesome supply constraint. Jack Watling, a senior fellow at the UK’s Royal United Services Institute, noted that military operations in Ukraine may soon become unsustainable for Russia, potentially affecting global markets.
“Only a sense of total impunity can allow Russia to carry out such strikes and continue increasing their scale.” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Trump’s recent statements about rising food prices and the state of our economy suggest he realizes these troublesome truths. He has emphasized the need for negotiations and quick resolutions, stating, “I think it’s the US best interest to get this war finished and just get it done.” Yet, despite the promise, many are rightfully skeptical about his proposed solutions due to his track record.
Uncertain Future for U.S.-Ukraine Relations
The specter of uncertainty over what Trump would want to do still hovers over U.S.-Ukraine relations. Even if Washington would be willing, Kyiv has reason to doubt Trump’s resolve to impose costly sanctions on Russia in the absence of a Kremlin pivot toward a ceasefire. His previous comments regarding food prices and his lack of military support have led many in Ukraine to question the sincerity of his promises.
Despite these misgivings, Trump has tried to portray himself as a peace broker in the dispute. In recent statements, he indicated that he could resolve the situation quickly: “I will have it solved in 24 hours.” But still, pessimism abounds about whether such pledges and claims will ever amount to real change.
Trump’s social media posts have frequently faced backlash due to their timing and message. Following Moscow’s deadliest strike on Kyiv since last summer, he wrote: “Not necessary, and very bad timing.” If so, such comments will seem to epitomize his continuing effort to meld the necessary diplomatic rhetoric with what’s taking place on the ground.
“There’s a very easy negotiation to take place. But I don’t want to tell you what it is because then I can’t use that negotiation.” – Donald Trump