Diane Francis on Trump-Putin Meeting, Ukraine War, and USSR Revival

Trump's Meeting Strategy

• 💡 Trump has lowered expectations for his meeting with Putin, stating he will end it quickly if it doesn't go well.
• 🎯 This strategy is seen as a way to manage potential failure and set up future discussions, possibly involving Ukraine.
• ⚠️ The approach is contrasted with Putin's more reserved style, which relies on repeating a consistent mantra.

Putin's Ambitions and Russian Stance

• 🇷🇺 The presence of a USSR t-shirt worn by Lavrov suggests a desire to reclaim territories like Ukraine and the Baltics.
• 🚫 Russia has continued its actions in Ukraine, ignoring ceasefire demands and pressing forward.
• 🧩 Putin is described as playing a strategic game, aiming to regain influence and potentially recreate the USSR.

European Role and Support for Ukraine

• 🇪🇺 Europe has largely assumed responsibility for Ukraine's future, including military protection and rebuilding costs.
• 🤝 European leaders have communicated their