Photo by Jørgen Håland on Unsplash
Recent developments between the USA and Russia have sparked debates about the future of their relations. From the appointment of Alexander Darchiyev as Russia’s new ambassador to the US to reports that the Trump administration may share confidential data with Moscow, it seems a shift is under way. However, is this a reset or is it a return to agreements reminiscent of the 1939 Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, where major powers divided influence, disregarding smaller states?
Negotiations, which began last year, have led to significant developments, with both sides expressing satisfaction. The most notable event was a high-profile meeting in Riyadh in February 2025. During this meeting, Putin and Trump discussed strategic issues, including energy, space, and economic relations, alongside the conflict in Ukraine.
While these talks seem pragmatic, they raise questions about the broader implications. In particular, Moscow seeks recognition of its territorial gains in Ukraine, as well as economic concessions like access to mineral resources in the occupied territories.
Ukraine remains the core topic in these discussions. Russia demands recognition of its control over the territories it has occupied, and the cessation of Western support for Ukraine. Moscow also wants to engage in joint ventures, particularly in the extraction of natural resources in Ukrainian territories, hoping that the West will legalise its control.
While it is unclear if the USA will engage in these talks, Russia’s strategy is clear: gain international recognition of its sovereignty over these territories, which would alter the European power dynamic.
Beyond politics, the USA and Russia are exploring economic cooperation, especially in the energy sector. Russian oligarchs and American companies are keen on joint ventures, such as managing Russia’s gas infrastructure with companies like ExxonMobil and BP.
Though such partnerships could boost both economies, they also risk increasing Europe’s dependence on Russian energy, which could have destabilising effects on European security.
Russia is using its diplomacy to reassert itself as a global power. Moscow hopes to capitalise on the personal chemistry between Presidents Putin and Trump to secure deals that could reshape global power dynamics. This approach is reminiscent of the 1939 Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, where spheres of influence were divided between the USSR and Nazi Germany.
While the USA and Russia may agree on trade, energy, and arms control, the broader political implications could undermine smaller nations’ interests, especially in Europe and Ukraine.
While the USA and Russia are central to the negotiations, Europe’s security concerns remain significant. Any agreement that disregards European sovereignty, particularly in Ukraine, could destabilise the region. European nations may face increasing pressure to align with one side, further dividing the continent.
While the USA-Russia talks may signal a new phase, they also raise critical questions about the global order. Are these discussions a reset, or is Russia simply reasserting its influence?
The outcome will have lasting consequences for Europe, Ukraine, and global politics. As both powers continue to engage, the international order remains in flux, and the interests of smaller states may again be sidelined in the pursuit of larger geopolitical gains.
