Part 6/12:
Instead, Rutte credits recent diplomatic efforts—particularly under President Trump's leadership—for initiating meaningful dialogue and breaking deadlocks in negotiations. These efforts include increased military aid to Ukraine, NATO commitments to boost defense spending, and ongoing sanctions. He emphasizes that Russia's recent mobilization, economic struggles, and military setbacks indicate that Vladimir Putin's strategy is failing.
He notes that Putin's portrayal of Russia as a formidable bear rather than a "paper tiger" is a weak deflection, as the economic realities and military setbacks paint a different picture. The reduced oil exports, declining global standing, and internal hardships further undermine Russia's image and bargaining power.