Donald Trump’s return to power is already sending shockwaves through Russia. His bold, unpredictable approach has cornered Vladimir Putin, forcing the Russian president to reconsider his stance on the Ukraine war. A former foreign policy advisor claims Trump’s unpredictability could push Putin into accepting a humiliating peace deal.
Just days into his new presidency, Trump sent a clear message to Putin: negotiate with Ukraine or face severe sanctions. He wasted no time threatening to devastate Russia’s economy with financial ruin if the Kremlin refuses to engage in peace talks. Trump, known for his no-nonsense business style, called Putin’s war “ridiculous”. He signalized that the U.S. is ready to take bold action.
Trump’s business background: a game-changer for diplomacy
Trump’s unique background as a businessman has given him a distinct advantage in global negotiations. Former UK affairs advisor to the U.S. Congress, Lee Cohen, pointed out that Trump’s business acumen and deal-making experience set him apart from other world leaders. Unlike typical politicians, Trump has the skills to think outside the box and apply unconventional tactics. This has helped him maintain the upper hand in the face of global adversaries like Putin.
Cohen believes Trump’s independence and track record of success make him an unpredictable force, which works to his advantage. Trump’s approach is not just about rhetoric; it’s about “peaceful strength,” as Cohen puts it. His willingness to make bold statements, like his recent social media post against Putin, shows his readiness to shake up the status quo.
Trump’s ultimatum to Putin: a bold move
Trump’s recent social media post aimed directly at Putin was a game-changer. The Republican leader told Putin: “Settle now, and stop this ridiculous war.” He threatened Russia with heavy tariffs, sanctions, and taxes on any goods sold to the U.S., sending a clear message: either negotiate or face serious consequences.
This sharp shift in Trump’s rhetoric marks a dramatic departure from his previously cordial relationship with Putin. It’s a sign of Trump’s strategic acumen, proving that he’s willing to take extreme measures to bring about peace. Cohen describes Trump’s approach as “bold and aggressive,” noting that it leaves Putin with little room to maneuver.
Trump’s war plan: a path to peace?
Trump has already laid out his vision for peace in Ukraine. He proposed creating a demilitarized zone along the front line, allowing Russia to keep the territory it has seized, while preventing further expansion. In exchange, Ukraine would agree not to join NATO for the next 20 years, with the U.S. continuing to supply Ukraine with military support.
Although Putin has yet to respond, Trump’s forceful rhetoric suggests that he’s ready to take further action. Cohen believes Trump’s ability to pivot from diplomacy to deterrence showcases his leadership skills. He’s not afraid to go from talks to pressure, keeping adversaries like Putin on edge.
Trump’s strength in negotiation
Trump’s success isn’t just about bold statements; it’s about leveraging relationships. He’s known for creating strategic alliances with powerful figures worldwide, including leaders like Giorgia Meloni and Javier Milei. Cohen notes that Trump’s ability to form influential relationships helps him pressure adversaries like Putin.
Unlike Joe Biden, who is often seen as less assertive on the world stage, Trump’s return has put Russia and other global players on notice. Cohen believes Trump’s aggressive approach to foreign policy sends a strong message: the U.S. under Trump is a force to be reckoned with.
Trump’s special envoy: Keith Kellogg
Trump has also enlisted the help of longtime ally Keith Kellogg, a decorated war hero, to serve as Special Envoy to Russia and Ukraine. The 80-year-old Kellogg’s role is seen as a strategic move to bring an end to the war. Some, however, believe that Trump is ultimately pulling the strings behind the scenes, using Kellogg as a diplomatic front while he takes control of negotiations.
Cohen agrees that Trump’s involvement in the peace process will be hands-on. He argues that Trump is not just interested in securing a legacy but in proving himself as a global leader capable of preventing a wider war. By resolving the Ukraine conflict, Trump would not only stabilize Europe but also prevent a global economic crisis.
Trump’s path to global peace
Trump’s unpredictable nature, combined with his aggressive diplomatic tactics, puts him in a unique position to force Putin to the negotiating table. His willingness to use economic and military pressure shows that he’s not afraid to confront global adversaries head-on.
By leading the charge to end the war in Ukraine, Trump aims to solidify his role as a global peacekeeper. The stakes are high, but Trump’s readiness to act decisively could reshape international relations for years to come. If he succeeds, the world will see him as a leader who can bring peace, stability, and power back to the U.S. on the global stage.
