The Russian government is reportedly optimistic about a decrease in Western support for Ukraine and is welcoming President Donald Trump's push for peace, according to a report by the Washington Post on October 20.
The newspaper noted that the Kremlin views the recent shift of the Trump administration away from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a significant victory. Additionally, it suggests that political turmoil in Europe is contributing to a crumbling of Western support for Ukraine.
Following a phone call between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on October 9, the U.S. government has lifted several economic sanctions against Russia. The U.S. has approved the global sale of Russian diesel fuel and has postponed new sanctions. Meanwhile, Ukraine has faced challenges with its military satellite internet service, Starshield, which has imposed speed limits that hinder operations. President Trump stated on October 19 that it is time for someone else to negotiate on behalf of Ukraine, calling for Zelensky's resignation. Although Zelensky's term has expired, he continues to govern under martial law, as elections are not permitted during wartime in Ukraine.
Despite these developments, behind-the-scenes negotiations for ending the war are ongoing. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff visited Norway on October 20 to meet with President Zelensky. The meeting, hosted by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, included Witkoff, Zelensky, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, along with representatives from the UK, Poland, the European Union, and NATO.
Witkoff is expected to travel to Russia for discussions with President Putin, focusing on the potential return of American retired teacher Steven Hubbard, who has been imprisoned in Russia for over four years. However, it is likely that the Russian side will emphasize its stance on the Ukraine war.
Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reported that President Putin may engage in trilateral talks with President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month to discuss negotiations for ending the Ukraine war.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that while there is no clear understanding of the potential agenda, there is recognition of the possibility of a trilateral meeting. However, a senior U.S. official indicated that President Trump has not agreed to participate in such talks. Additionally, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed on October 19 that discussions about a trilateral meeting are ongoing, but it remains uncertain if everything is finalized.
According to sources, President Xi is attempting to balance support for President Putin with maintaining economic cooperation between China and Europe.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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