Retired Army Colonel Martin Perriman has shared his views on how Donald Trump could persuade Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine.
In a column for The Hill, he noted that despite all the stringent sanctions, the Russian economy remains resilient due to support from China. Moreover, Russia has managed to maintain its military strength at a sufficient level to continue the conflict. This indicates that Putin has no intention of making concessions until the situation becomes more favorable for Russia.
According to the analyst, Trump should employ a strategy that includes not only economic pressure but also active support for Ukraine. He suggests establishing a ceasefire along the front lines, which would help stabilize global energy and food prices. However, he believes that if either side rejects this plan, the peace process will collapse.
Additionally, Perriman pointed out that American aid to Ukraine amounts to about $175 billion, a significant portion of which is allocated to meet U.S. defense needs. However, ending this assistance is complicated by the support of Republicans in Congress, who are more pro-Ukrainian than Trump himself.
Another factor complicating the peace process is the influence of Elon Musk, whose Starlink satellite system played a crucial role in the early stages of the war. However, Musk has already refused to support strikes on Crimea and has proposed his own peace plan, which has not gained traction among many Western politicians.
The most effective way for the U.S. remains to continue supporting Ukraine through material assistance. Trump could offer generous aid for the reconstruction of the military, which would also be an important step towards NATO and EU membership. Perriman also noted that if Russia continues its aggression, the U.S. could increase its support.
"This real threat is the best way to convince Putin that it is better to 'declare victory and take what is offered' than to 'keep pressing until the Russian flag flies over Kyiv.' Sanctions have only hardened Putin's resolve. If we want to break him, we need to speak the only language he understands: strength,” Perriman concluded.
Source: thehill .