Trump's Russia Deal Risks Encouraging Putin, CNN Warns

President Donald Trump's new initiative for a broader agreement with Russia may backfire, potentially encouraging Vladimir Putin to escalate the war in Ukraine rather than end it, according to a CNN analysis. The proposal, presented by Trump's envoy Jared Kushner as the "Shell Bay format," outlines permanent security consultations, crisis communication channels, and military transparency measures for Europe. European officials and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky say they know few details, raising fears Washington might strike a deal with Moscow and pressure Kyiv to accept its terms. The main risk is that Putin interprets US willingness to negotiate as a sign of weakened American resolve, prompting intensified military operations before any agreement. Upcoming talks in Abu Dhabi will test the initiative, which remains a general framework rather than a concrete peace proposal.