Peace Gamble

The second inauguration of Donald Trump has brought with it a dramatic shift in American rhetoric on the war in Ukraine.

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By threatening severe economic penalties against Russia and urging President Vladimir Putin to negotiate an end to the conflict, President Trump has thrust himself into the global spotlight as a would-be peacemaker. However, while his approach is undeniably bold, it raises questions about the feasibility of his ambition and the complexities of achieving peace in such a complex, entrenched war. Mr Trump’s ultimatum to Russia comprises leveraging economic sanctions and furthering the Moscow view to negotiate putting his strategic twist, painting his proposal to Mr Putin as a mutually beneficial rather than a “purely punitive”. This posture reflects Mr Trump’s signature style of negotiation the self-interest of his counterpart. For Russia, grappling with economic strain and an increasingly protracted conflict, the pressure could be significant. However, the core issues that have perpetuate