Trump may lose the only chance to make peace in Ukraine
Former Bush adviser Thomas Graham warns in a New York Times column that the diplomatic window for settling the war in Ukraine may be missed if Washington does not resume mediation. He notes escalation, exhaustion of the parties, and recommends Trump send special envoys to Kyiv and Moscow. Secretary of State Rubio confirmed the analysis of positions.
Former adviser to George W. Bush, Thomas Graham, warns in a New York Times column that the diplomatic window for settling Russia's war against Ukraine remains open, but the favorable moment may be missed if Washington does not resume active mediation. In his assessment, while Donald Trump's attention is diverted to the Iranian crisis, the readiness of Kyiv and Moscow for negotiations with US participation is declining. Graham highlights a dangerous phase of escalation: Ukraine is increasing attacks on military and energy facilities deep inside Russia, while Russia is intensifying shelling of critical infrastructure, taking advantage of the Ukrainian Armed Forces' shortage of air defense missiles. He also notes the factor of exhaustion: Ukraine faces a personnel shortage and risks losing millions of refugees, while Russia faces a demographic crisis and technological lag. Graham believes that a ceasefire would allow both leaders to claim victory. He recommends that Trump send special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Kyiv and Moscow for shuttle diplomacy. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Washington is analyzing the positions of the parties.