US President Donald Trump shortened the deadline given to Russia. The deadline concerned the arms control agreement. Saks says that Trump's attitude has changed. Russia can no longer ignore this.
Previously, Russia has mocked Trump's deadlines. Because Trump has not adhered to them before. Now Trump's words are more serious. His pressure is stronger than before. The US cannot be a neutral mediator because they are giving Ukraine a lot of weapons.
Saks says that Russia has skillfully canceled deadlines. The US president has previously accepted this. But now it is part of a bigger game. Russia and its allies are trying to reduce the US influence in the world.
China and the BRICS countries are also trying to weaken the US. Trump's behavior with tariffs fits into this picture. It is a counterbalance to the plans of the BRICS countries.
Trump is sending special envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow. It is not known whether Witkoff will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. If Russia wants to achieve something, then Putin himself might meet with Witkoff.
Saks believes that Russia is trying to create the impression that they are making concessions. But these concessions are symbolic. The US president must decide whether he agrees with them.
Trump has now realized that pressure on Russia may not work. He said that sanctions will certainly come. Russia can no longer so easily ignore Trump's words.
Trump also reacted to the threats of former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Trump said that US submarines are ready to attack if necessary. This is additional pressure on Russia. The US shows that Russia cannot pressure them.