Donald Trump is in a hurry to make peace in Ukraine. Vladimir Putin does not": The Economist writes that US mediation in the negotiations "could help Russia prolong the war".
"This is not the first time that Trump announced the achievement of a "big and beautiful agreement" that should end the war. But his latest remarks, which came just days before the start of the first trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine and the US since February, caused concern in Kiev and several European capitals.
Few believe that a window of opportunity for serious diplomacy has now opened. However, US and Ukrainian sources say Trump's crushing defeat in the midterm congressional elections has given new urgency to the negotiation process.
Ukrainian negotiators are privately skeptical about the prospects for a breakthrough, but have been instructed to participate in the talks while remaining open to offers. At least it will prevent Trump from being satisfied."