Leveraging decades of complex diplomacy and a unique rapport with Russian leadership, President Trump holds significant influence that could pivot the trajectory of Moscow’s military maneuvers. His previous engagements have opened backchannels often inaccessible to current U.S. policymakers, placing him in a strategic position to negotiate with high-ranking Russian officials. Analysts argue that these connections, combined with Trump’s understanding of geopolitical risk calculus, could be decisive in de-escalating the conflict.

Key aspects of this leverage include:

  • Established communication lines: Direct and informal networks with Kremlin insiders that bypass traditional…