US President Donald Trump is losing interest in negotiations for a peace settlement regarding Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine. The American leader is now primarily focused on the Middle East conflict involving Iran. This shift in Washington’s priorities has led to a significant deadlock in the diplomatic process between Kyiv and Moscow.
The Financial Times reported this development, citing informed sources and EU diplomats. According to European officials, the confrontation with Iran has diverted Washington’s political attention away from a potential peace deal in Eastern Europe. This situation benefits Russia by raising oil prices and suspending certain U.S. sanctions. Furthermore, the US is now prioritizing military deliveries, including air defense systems, to Middle Eastern customers.
“The Middle East has sharply refocused political attention. For us and for Ukraine, this is a disaster,” stated one EU diplomat.
Threats to the negotiation process
The trilateral peace talks mediated by the United States are currently at high risk. While the last meeting took place in Geneva in February, the upcoming round in Abu Dhabi was postponed indefinitely following US-Israeli strikes on Iran. European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz, are actively trying to keep Ukraine at the center of Trump’s agenda. However, sources familiar with the discussions indicate that Trump remains convinced of Russia’s strength and Ukraine’s weakness.
US officials appear increasingly indifferent to the specific terms of a potential ceasefire. Although the White House claims “significant progress” has been made, participants in private talks express doubt.
“I don’t think the Russians want to have negotiations again anytime soon. Because there is nothing to talk about,” said one individual involved in the non-public discussions.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously expressed readiness for a new round of talks, but the conflicting positions of the US and Russia regarding the venue and timing remain unresolved.
Earlier, The Ukrainian Review reported that Ukraine intends to test an alternative to Patriot systems and may sign a new deal with the US.
