Divisions Among Elites and Pressure on Putin: Ukraine and the US Agreement Strikes at Russia.

Russia Concerned About Losing Advantage Over the US in Negotiations Regarding the War in Ukraine

Moscow is worried about Ukraine's signing of an economic partnership agreement with the US, which gives America advantages in obtaining Ukrainian minerals. Russian officials criticize this agreement and express concern about a possible alliance between the US and Ukraine that would limit Russia's ability to negotiate a favorable peace deal.

Russia Pushkov

Russia Chepa

The Trump administration initially perceived the conflict from the Russian side, but after a meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, Trump accused Putin and expressed doubts about his sincerity. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent welcomed the agreement and stated that it 'shows the lack of discrepancies between the Ukrainian and American people.'

The agreement provides for the establishment of a US-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund and stipulates that any future US military assistance will be considered an investment in the fund. Russia is dissatisfied with these conditions as it wants to halt American weapons supplies to Ukraine.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham warned about supporting a bill regarding new sanctions against Russia, which would entail 500 percent tariffs on imports of Russian energy resources. American and European officials are also discussing introducing new economic sanctions against Russia.

Economic problems caused by sanctions and military expenditures are deepening the divide in the Russian elite. Some factions support adopting the agreement with the US, swapping sanctions for a ceasefire on the front line, and recognizing Russian control over Crimea. Others call for continuing the war despite economic troubles.

Sanctions and high interest rates have led to inflation and rising prices for goods. The Russian budget is facing a deficit. According to US Vice President Jay D. Vance, his country will try to reconcile positions with Russia over the next 100 days, but it is possible that the US will forgo mediation if there is no 'quick resolution.' In the diplomat's opinion, a long-term ceasefire is possible if the US agrees to limit the supply of certain types of weapons to Ukraine.