Trump Postpones Putin Summit Amid Ukraine Conflict Escalation

President Donald Trump had planned a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest to discuss ending the war in Ukraine, but he abruptly canceled it, citing a lack of progress and no point in a wasted meeting. Despite Trump's earlier reluctance to impose sanctions, he recently sanctioned major Russian oil companies, signaling frustration with Putin's unwillingness to compromise, though these measures are unlikely to force a change in Russia's stance. Russia continues its aggressive operations, including drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, while Ukraine uses advanced long-range missiles like the Flamingo to strike Russian targets deep within Russia. Critics argue that Trump consistently favors conciliatory approaches toward Putin, often yielding to the Russian leader's tactics and failing to pressure Moscow effectively. The fluctuating U.S. policies and Trump's inconsistent approach have left negotiations at a standstill, with Russia maintaining a hybrid war posture in Europe and Ukraine striving to counter these threats. The collapse of peace talks highlights enduring obstacles, including Putin's hardline demands, Trump's limited leverage, and mutual unwillingness to compromise, prolonging the conflict with serious implications for regional security.