Ukraine: The Latest Trump tells Ukraine: Accept Putin’s demands ‘or be destroyed’
Oct 20, 2025
In a riveting discussion, Professor Robert Person, a scholar of Russian foreign policy, analyzes the geopolitical dynamics following Trump’s controversial pressure on Ukraine. He delves into the stalled negotiations with Russia and the challenges of achieving peace. Person emphasizes the importance of military pressure on Russia and the impact of Ukrainian strikes on energy infrastructure. Additionally, he reflects on how European unity is crucial for supporting Ukraine and assesses the unlikely role of China in influencing Putin's decisions.
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Bocelli Interrupted Zelensky's White House Visit
- Francis Dearnley described Zelensky kept waiting while Andrea Bocelli sang in the Oval Office.
- He recounted the press pool delay and a tense unscheduled press conference that followed.
White House Meeting Shifted US Tone
- Trump's White House meeting signalled a move away from supplying Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine.
- After Putin's call, Trump urged Zelensky to accept Russia's terms and suggested territorial concessions, surprising many observers.
A Tie Became Diplomatic Fodder
- Francis recounted the controversy over Pete Hegseth's tie allegedly matching Russian flag colours.
- He noted how that small detail was amplified by Russian media and diplomatic observers.