Chris Hughes serves as the Defence and Security Editor at the Daily Mirror. He was recognized as the specialist journalist of the year in 2013 at the UK Press Awards. With extensive reporting experience from conflict zones such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Ukraine, and global terror incidents including 9-11 in the US, he offers exclusive analysis on Substack at https://hostileworld.substack.com/
A potential meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin may signal a new chapter in the conflict in Ukraine. However, the likelihood of a significant breakthrough is dim. Trump, perceived as vulnerable and easily influenced, would confront a politically cunning, deceitful, and manipulative adversary if the meeting materializes.
Putin, a former KGB officer, possesses a full arsenal of manipulation tactics and persuasive strategies, which he is expected to employ to navigate negotiations towards a ceasefire in Ukraine. Despite projecting a tough and charismatic demeanor, he is likely to withhold concrete commitments, maintain ambiguity about the future, and subtly convey disdain to his domestic audience.
Being a seasoned intelligence operative, Putin is anticipated to meticulously prepare for the meeting, anticipating and strategizing for every possible scenario. In contrast, Trump may mistakenly rely on his real estate negotiation skills to secure favorable outcomes, a tactic that may fall short of expectations.
Following the meeting, Trump, known for his missteps, might initially perceive the encounter as a triumph, believing in a positive rapport with his “friend” Putin, only to realize the insignificance of the discussions later on.
Despite Trump’s perception of a friendly relationship, Putin views him as a formidable adversary to be subdued and outmaneuvered. Putin’s misjudgment of the situation, thinking he is winning the conflict in Ukraine, is clouded by misinformation from his advisors. In reality, Russian advancements are slow, and Ukrainian forces are effectively targeting Russian military infrastructure and energy facilities on a regular basis.
While Russia’s actions result in civilian casualties and serve no strategic purpose other than morale reduction, Putin is keen to dissuade Trump from imposing severe sanctions on Russia. He is likely to employ various tactics to avoid concessions while maximizing gains during negotiations.
The aftermath of the meeting holds significance, with Russia expected to carefully orchestrate its response, potentially showcasing a facade of improved relations with the US while distancing itself from Europe and Ukraine.
It is crucial for the Western powers that Trump remains vigilant against any signs of deceit or disrespect, responding assertively, which may leverage his perceived sensitivity to benefit the situation. Imposing sanctions on Russia amid ongoing hostilities could become a reality if Trump maintains a strong stance. Any positive outcomes for Trump in this scenario may be incidental.
The anticipated summit is likely to be a facade, primarily serving the interests of the two leaders and tailored for their respective domestic audiences, while the Ukrainian population continues to suffer from Russian attacks and with the approaching harsh winter conditions.
In the hypothetical event of a meeting between Donald Trump and Putin, the latter may be envisioning further distressing tactics to harm Ukrainian civilians, such as disrupting
