Part 3/6:
In response to this intensified pressure, General Keane pointed out that Putin's willingness to meet with Zelensky is a calculated move. It suggests he is acutely aware of the mounting international pressure and the potential ramifications of stigma, especially with sanctions looming. Keane interpreted Putin's action as a tactical stall — utilizing the possibility of a peace treaty to his advantage while facing a serious diplomatic push against his regime.
Trump’s willingness to participate in the Istanbul meeting introduces additional leverage to the discussions. This potential involvement from the United States explicitly reinforces the positioning of the U.S. in the ongoing conflict and accentuates the significance of diplomatic efforts to navigate a complex geopolitical situation.