One Decision Is Trump Scoring A Peace Deal for Ukraine... Or Putin?
Nov 27, 2025
Michael McFaul, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia and Stanford professor, delves into Trump's controversial 28-point peace deal for Ukraine, calling it a potential capitulation to Putin. He discusses how the proposal undermines NATO allies and the dangers of limiting Ukraine's sovereignty. McFaul also reflects on Putin's shift from pragmatism to paranoia, sharing insights from their early interactions. Additionally, he examines the evolving China-Russia alliance and suggests a Ukrainian victory could ignite political change within Russia.
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Trump Plan Mirrors Russian Demands
- Michael McFaul argues Trump's 28-point plan repeats long-standing Russian demands and constitutes capitulation to Putin.
- He warns that full acceptance would likely provoke domestic revolt in Ukraine and harm U.S. interests.
Rebuild Interagency Process And Consult Allies
- McFaul advises that the Trump administration must restore interagency deliberation and consult allies before negotiating major security deals.
- He stresses ad-hoc backchannel talks with inexperienced envoys undermine American national security.
Constraining Ukraine Risks Global Precedents
- Limiting Ukrainian sovereignty (e.g., barring NATO membership) would set a dangerous precedent affecting Taiwan and other partners.
- McFaul emphasizes a strong Ukraine enhances European deterrence and strengthens NATO long-term.
