What is Putin's true goal? -- Unraveling the Misunderstanding of the Moscow Dictator
On March 18, U.S. President Trump held a bilateral phone call with Russian President Putin regarding a ceasefire in the Ukraine-Russia war. Trump described the conversation as "productive," but no specific consensus was reached; both sides merely agreed to a temporary halt in attacks on energy and infrastructure. Former UK Prime Minister Johnson criticized this, believing that Putin was mocking U.S. efforts. Despite active mediation by the United States, Russia's response to the ceasefire remains lukewarm, indicating Moscow's confidence and dominance in the peace talks. At the same time, Ukraine is willing to accept the comprehensive ceasefire proposal put forward by the U.S., but Russia insists on conditions, including the cessation of foreign aid and the recognition of its sovereignty in Crimea and eastern Ukraine. Putin's negotiation strategy seems aimed at strengthening his position both domestically and internationally, while Western concessions may only encourage Russia's more aggressive expansion. Regardless, the Ukrainian people remain the ultimate victims, and true peace requires a deep understanding of the mindsets and intentions of dictators to avoid repeating mistakes.