Trump at NATO summit: 'Putin wants peace, let's talk'

Donald Trump's assertion that Vladimir Putin desires peace and intends to discuss the Ukraine war at the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara has met with skepticism from European allies. While Trump claimed Putin "strongly wants to end the war," European nations are steadfast in their support for Kyiv, despite some internal disagreements over the financial burden.

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Putin wants to end the war, he wants it badly.

Ukraine's position appears strengthened, with President Volodymyr Zelensky set to attend key NATO events in Ankara. This participation, including a bilateral meeting with Trump, signals a shift from previous years. Ukrainian drones have successfully targeted Russian refineries, a development supported by NATO leaders, including Finnish President Alexander Stubb. Stubb noted that Kyiv is in its "best position" since the war began, with these drone strikes influencing U.S. strategic thinking and bolstering Ukraine's negotiating stance.

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The NATO leaders support the intensification of drone attacks as part of efforts to force Moscow back to the negotiating table.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte described Putin as increasingly "desperate," highlighting that Russian advances have stalled despite heavy casualties. Rutte emphasized the importance of continued support for Ukraine, including contributions to defense mechanisms and the procurement of essential weaponry. The upcoming Defense Forum in Ankara is expected to generate significant contracts, potentially including licensing agreements for allied companies, though concerns remain about the transatlantic industry's production capacity.

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Putin is increasingly desperate, he is bombing Ukrainian cities but not advancing at the front, amassing dead after dead among his soldiers.