Kremlin sees Trump-Zelensky rift as its own victory

The Kremlin views the deteriorating relationship between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a victory for Russia, interpreting it as a sign of Western weakening. Moscow plans to leverage the situation to secure concessions from Ukraine, particularly regarding Donbas, while expanding cooperation with Washington. Over the past ten days, Trump has eased restrictions on Russian diesel exports, paused new sanctions, and increased pressure on Kyiv, including limiting Ukraine's access to satellite systems and delaying interceptor missile deliveries. Russian officials also anticipate broader economic partnership with the US, discussing projects in the Arctic, energy, and liquefied gas production. Kremlin representatives have publicly celebrated the rift, with Kirill Dmitriev declaring "checkmate" and Dmitry Peskov claiming Ukrainian authorities are experiencing "last signs of agony."