Trump's tariff threat sparks dis content in Moscow, while Kiev expresses satisfaction
In a volatile geopolitical landscape, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine remains unresolved, with both sides continuing hostilities despite efforts for peace.
The current status of peace talks is stalled, despite new negotiations planned for July 23, 2025, in Turkey. Previous talks in May and June resulted mainly in prisoner swaps without a lasting agreement. The Ukrainian airspace has become a battleground, with nightly air strikes and around 300 Russian drones intercepted by the Ukrainian air defense last night [2].
Former Russian President Dmitri Medvedev has warned of a potential war between Russia and the US, stating that every ultimatum from Trump is a step towards war. Medvedev urged that it would not be between Russia and Ukraine, but with Trump's own country [1]. In contrast, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sees Trump's new tone as a step towards peace. He believes that sanctions are a key element in achieving peace, as Russia feels the sanctions and the resulting losses [1].
The new deadline for significant tariffs threatening Russia's trading partners, reduced from 50 days to "ten or twelve," is effective today, Monday. The 100 percent tariff is intended to persuade Russia's trading partners, led by China and India, to either reduce their purchases of Russian oil and gas or exert pressure on Russia to achieve a peaceful solution in Ukraine [1].
Russia continues to insist on its own demands, which amount to a capitulation by Kiev. The Ukrainian leadership, however, does not want to limit itself to defensive measures in national defense. Recently, Zelensky declared the production of intercept drones a priority [1]. In a spectacular strike at the beginning of June, the SBU used truck-borne drones to attack military airfields deep in Russian territory, destroying around a dozen bombers [1].
The escalating situation in Ukraine has been met with mixed reactions. Trump's election victory in November was greeted with great relief in Russia, and even after taking office, the Republican was notable for his relatively Kremlin-friendly positions [1]. However, Trump's patience has worn thin, following continued rocket attacks on Ukrainian cities despite talks about ending the war.
As the peace talks remain highly fragile, the international community, including the US, has intensified military support to Ukraine in response to Russia’s continued aggression. Diplomatic efforts continue without clear signs of imminent resolution [1][2]. The future of Ukraine hangs in the balance as both sides dig their heels in, with no end to the conflict in sight.
Amidst the volatile international political climate, the ongoing war-and-conflicts between Russia and Ukraine remain unresolved, with each side adamant in their positions despite diplomatic efforts for peace. The general-news of increasing military support from the international community, including the US, in response to Russia's aggression, indicates a protracted future for this conflict.
