According to PANews, U.S. President Donald Trump has heightened stakes ahead of his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, focusing on the Ukraine conflict and his own credibility. Three individuals involved in Trump's summit discussions assert that he is not bluffing, marking a departure from previous 'exploratory meetings.' Trump privately informed the Ukrainian President and NATO leaders that his aim is a ceasefire, publicly warning Putin of 'very serious consequences' if he does not agree to halt the fighting.
A senior U.S. official described Trump's stance as the most serious and direct he has ever taken, emphasizing his desire to demonstrate this to the world. The official stated, 'The responsibility now lies with Putin: agree to a ceasefire or face serious consequences.' Another U.S. official noted that Putin initiated contact with Trump and requested the meeting, now needing to fulfill his commitments.
However, if the meeting fails without severe repercussions, Trump's threats may appear increasingly hollow in the future.