Vladimir Putin’s “game plan” is clear to see after President Trump’s extraordinary confrontation with Volodymyr Zelensky, according to defence expert Robert Fox.
Speaking on GB News, Fox gave his verdict on the Oval Office clash that sent shockwaves across the world.
Figures like Nigel Farage have warned the clash only served to benefit Putin, and eyes are now on Moscow to see how the Russian President reacts.
“What Putin wants is a ceasefire from which Russia, on Victory Day, in the Red Square, is say that ‘we won’”, Fox said on GB News.
Putin is hoping for a quick outcome, according to Robert Fox
GB NEWS
“That’s what Putin really wants. Putin wants to show that it was worth it. He wants to ensure this part of Europe remains part of the Russian sphere.
“That is what is going on. Russians are working for a big deal on minerals and we’ve heard about minerals in Ukraine, but they’re trying to do joint production with American companies in Russia and the Arctic.
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Robert Fox joined Dawn Neesom on GB News
GB NEWS
“That even came up at the Riyadh talks. The first meeting since [Marco] Rubio came to office. What happened? Sergei Lavrov brought his two top men on investment and Arctic affairs.
“The Russian strategy can be seen, but they want to get on with it because both sides are exhausted. Russia needs an operational pause.”
The incredible dressing down in front of the media saw Trump tell Zelensky to show more gratitude for years of US support.
Zelensky pushed back at suggestions that he is not thankful and he should be doing more to ensure a ceasefire with Vladimir Putin.
Russian President Vladimir PutinReutersHe was eventually told the leave the White House earlier than planned which meant a scheduled press conference did not take place.
Both sides had talked up the possibility of a minerals deal ahead of the meeting, only for Zelensky to jet off without leaving a signature.
“Come back when you’re ready for peace”, was Trump’s parting message to Zelensky on social media, which he posted shortly before his car pulled away.
Keir Starmer is set to speak to Zelensky after the confrontation, having expressed his “unwavering support” for Ukraine.