Trump appeared to have recognized the limits of third-party mediation between Russia and Ukraine in the post that he made after his latest call with Putin.
Xi Jinping will talk with Putin on a range of issues, signing a number of inter-governmental agreements, suggesting a deal between them if Ukraine talks fail.
Russia warned any unconditional ceasefire of the 30-day sort that Zelensky proposed could create an opening for NATO to expand its military influence in Ukraine.
Ukraine extended martial law exposing Zelensky's fear of losing re-election. He’s very unpopular, and he likely fears that the US wants to replace him.
Trump warned Zelensky he will have “some problems – big, big problems” if he “tries to back out of the rare earth deal” amidst reports agreement is lopsided.
Putin will soon be faced with choice of keeping Russia’s ground campaign limited to former Ukrainian regions that voted to join Russia or expanding it.
