Trump is showing Putin who’s boss – diplomat Ohryzko

Ohryzko shared his opinions with Espreso TV.

"It seems to me that, at least regarding Ukraine, the process is ongoing, although it’s very hard. But on the other hand, why do we expect such complex issues to be resolved in 24 hours? Trump couldn’t say it the other way, he said what he did because he wanted to project an image of himself as a macho figure, someone who can get everything done in a single day. Now, the discussion has shifted to 100 days, and soon it’ll be another 100 days. It’s clear there’s no detailed, concrete plan. But there are positives. Trump has started to bully Vladimir Putin. And that’s good because he’s showing who’s in charge. The flattery, or whatever you want to call it, from Putin shows that subordination is already in place," Ohryzko said.

Ohryzko believes neither the U.S. nor China will prioritize Russia.

"There’s always a leader and a follower. Sure, Putin will keep boasting about how strong and powerful he is. He’ll talk about a multipolar world and other nonsense. But everyone knows the two key players in the world now are China and the U.S., or rather, the U.S. first, then China. The rest will depend on whether they reach an agreement or if it leads to a global economic crisis. Ultimately, one of these powers will have the economic leverage to influence the other. I think these trends are still very much in flux. But one thing is clear, neither the U.S. nor China will put Russia first. China might see Russia as a junior partner, but that’s it. This uncertain situation gives us a chance to push our agenda. And we need to work on this daily at any and every level," Ohryzko emphasized.

• On January 22, U.S. President Donald Trump called on Russian dictator Vladimir Putin to strike a deal to end the war in Ukraine. He warned that refusal could lead to high taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on all Russian exports to the U.S.