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The latest statements from U.S. officials have triggered irritation in Moscow, which believes Washington is changing its approach to the war in Ukraine, according to a report by the Financial Times.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the United States of “stepping back from the role of an objective mediator” and abandoning earlier positions that he claimed were closer to Moscow’s view.
According to the report, part of Russia’s frustration stems from remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump during the G7 summit. Sources said Trump was “deeply impressed” by Ukraine’s recent long-range strike campaign against targets inside Russia.
At the same summit, Trump also reportedly agreed to support stronger sanctions on Russia’s energy sector.
Moscow has since acknowledged that it no longer expects Washington to act as a neutral intermediary in efforts to end the war.
Meanwhile, Western and Ukrainian officials cited by the FT say there are signs of a shifting U.S. assessment of the battlefield situation. Where earlier some American officials believed Russia held the advantage, there is now growing skepticism about its ability to achieve its strategic goals.
Ukrainian officials also described cautious optimism regarding future U.S. support, including possible deliveries of Patriot interceptor missiles and discussions on licensed production in Europe or Ukraine.
Following meetings between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Trump, Kyiv said the U.S. leadership had shown a more positive attitude toward missile licensing issues for Patriot systems.
European allies believe the evolving U.S. position could open the door to stronger support for Ukraine and increased pressure on Moscow.
