The two leaders agreed to a 30-day cease fire limited to no attacks on each country’s energy infrastructure. For Ukraine this means the cessation of Russian attacks on the power grid. The cease fire does not apply to the Russian advance on the battlefield. The two leaders agreed to further talks in order to bring the conflict to an end and normalize relations.

I knew that Putin could not accept a general cease fire. I find it hopeful that Trump understands Putin’s reasons and that the two leaders could agree on a partial cease fire in order that the discussions can continue. Trump had recently publicly threatened Putin with punishment if he failed to agree to a cease fire. I was concerned that Putin’s refusal to accept a general cease fire would offend Trump, result in more sanctions, and defeat Trump’s boast that he could end the conflict.

The conflict is not really between Ukraine and Russia. It is Washington’s proxy war against Russia. Ukraine is merely the proxy. No decision is up to Zelensky. As Trump says the conflict would not have happened if the Democrats had not stolen his reelection in 2020, Trump has no stake in the war and should be able to walk away from it on Putin’s terms, which are reasonable.

If Trump can avoid being ensnared by Israel into war with Iran, Trump can focus on his domestic agenda. He might find that the American Establishment is a more formidable enemy than Putin.