Vladimir Putin has long expected a decline in relations with Donald Trump, despite a brief initial improvement at the beginning of Trump's second term. Although Moscow considers the deteriorating ties regrettable, its priorities lie firmly with the war in Ukraine. Analysts indicate that Putin remains confident in Russian advances and sees the conflict as existential. Kremlin insiders express mixed feelings of frustration and acceptance regarding the fallout with Trump, acknowledging that tougher US sanctions and ongoing support for Ukraine were always anticipated in Russian strategy.
Putin had long anticipated a deterioration in relations with Trump, despite initial improvements observed at the beginning of Trump’s second term. Moscow views this souring of ties as regrettable, yet acknowledges it would prioritize its maximalist goals in Ukraine regardless.
The invasion of Ukraine is existential for Putin, who remains confident that Russian forces continue to gain ground. Analysts observe frustration and acceptance among Kremlin officials regarding the breakdown of relations with Trump.
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