Despite Ukraine’s declared readiness to negotiate with the Russian Federation to end hostilities on fair terms—and the consolidated pro-Ukrainian stance of most European countries and the United States—the Kremlin continues to demonstrate its unwillingness to engage in constructive dialogue. Instead, it uses its so-called participation in negotiations as a means of buying time, during which it cynically continues to destroy civilian infrastructure across Ukraine. This position of the Kremlin has become increasingly evident both to Europe and the United States. The need for a united front from influential political leaders who understand the problem and are capable of taking decisive action to address it has become undeniable.
In this context, the statement by U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham is especially important, as he drew attention to the key factors that will influence the trajectory of Russia’s war against Ukraine.
The American senator called on the EU to introduce a price cap on energy resources—particularly oil and gas—to limit the Kremlin’s income from energy exports. Russia’s economy and military-industrial complex rely heavily on these revenues.
The implementation of a price cap would also help stabilise energy prices across European nations, which are under constant pressure from rising tariffs and market volatility. It is a strategic move aimed at reducing Europe’s dependence on Russian gas.
There is also mention of the possible introduction of new U.S. sanctions against China, which, amid restrictions on Russia’s economy, is openly cooperating with the Kremlin. Undoubtedly, this U.S. position is also motivated by the desire to contain China’s political and military ambitions and to prevent a potential alliance between Beijing and Moscow in their confrontation with the West.
Equally important is the influential American politician’s confidence that Ukraine will not lose the war. Russian propaganda continues to work hard to spread false narratives about the supposed successes of the Russian armed forces and to weaken Western support for Ukraine. For three years, Russian media have been pushing claims of Ukraine’s “inevitable defeat” and “betrayal,” but reality tells a different story. Russia lacks the strength to gain a decisive advantage on the battlefield, while Ukrainian soldiers and civilians continue to demonstrate resilience and a determination for freedom, backed by the support of the international community.
