Political Analyst: Make-up of US Negotiating Team Raises Doubts About Ukraine Peace Talks

Latvian political analyst and National Guard volunteer Veiko Spolitis voiced doubts on the TV24 programme "Ziņu TOP" about the role of US President Donald Trump's administration in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. In his view, Washington's conduct is largely shaped by business interests and a wish to score political successes ahead of the US congressional midterm elections due in November, in which Americans choose part of the legislature.

Doubts about the participants

Spolitis noted that a member of Trump's family and his business partner are involved in the talks. He argued that this line-up raises questions about the real aims of the process and the chances of reaching a lasting agreement.

The analyst suggested that Ukraine's participation may be needed so as not to create the impression that Kyiv is refusing to seek a diplomatic solution. At the same time, he said, it is in Ukraine's interest to keep an active role in the negotiations and use the situation to its advantage. He believes Ukraine has already learned to operate in a complicated international environment and is able to resist pressure from negotiators whose motivation raises questions.

Attitude toward Putin and the length of the war

Assessing Trump's attitude toward Russian President Vladimir Putin, Spolitis expressed disappointment. In his opinion, the US president's shifting stance and desire to maintain personal contacts with Putin call into question how far US policy is focused on Ukraine's interests.

The expert said it is impossible to predict how the war will end: it could finish relatively soon, but it could also drag on for several more years. In any case, he said, the decisive factors will be the capabilities of Ukraine's army and the endurance of its people, especially if difficult compromises have to be accepted during negotiations.

Influence of the elections

Spolitis believes the US administration's activity on Ukraine is closely tied to the midterms. It is important for Washington to create the impression that a solution to the war is being sought, showing voters the president's efforts to achieve peace. He allowed that Trump's electoral success could benefit Moscow rather than Kyiv, although he said this depends on how the political situation develops.

In conclusion, the analyst urged Ukraine not to cherish unfounded hopes of a quick and fair settlement. In his view, it is essential to retain the ability to defend its own interests and to prevent the diplomatic process from becoming a tool for achieving other countries' political or economic goals.