President Donald Trump's efforts to negotiate peace between Russia and Ukraine are being undermined by recent Russian airstrikes on Kyiv, which killed 12 and injured nearly 100. Despite these challenges, Trump remains optimistic about reaching a peace deal, emphasizing potential benefits such as trade agreements and tariff deals. His envoy, Steve Witkoff, is in Russia to discuss peace, but skepticism persists due to mistrust in Putin's intentions. Former CIA officer Dan Hoffman outlines three U.S. strategies: enticing Russia with trade deals, increasing military pressure on the battlefield, or allowing Europe to handle the conflict. Meanwhile, a White House proposal suggests recognizing Russian territorial claims in exchange for sanctions relief, a move that Ukrainian President Zelenskyy opposes, especially concerning Crimea's status.

President Trump's patience is severely tested by Russian President Putin's airstrikes on Kyiv, which resulted in significant casualties, just before Special Envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Moscow aimed at peace negotiations.

Trump remains hopeful about brokering a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting potential economic benefits such as trade and tariff agreements, while stating the urgency of saving lives lost to the conflict.

The U.S. administration has expressed willingness to recognize certain Russian territorial claims, including Crimea, in exchange for lifting sanctions, although this proposal faces strong opposition from Ukraine's President Zelenskyy.

Security experts, including former Moscow CIA Station Chief Dan Hoffman, criticize the Biden administration for inadequate military support to Ukraine, suggesting alternative strategies like enticing Russia with deals or increasing military pressure.

Despite verbal warnings from both Trump and his predecessor Biden, Putin has continued military actions, leading to questions about the effectiveness of diplomatic pressure and the need for a more robust military response.

There is ongoing skepticism about Putin's willingness to genuinely engage in peace talks, as evidenced by his rejection of ceasefire deals and continued aggressive actions, which complicates the potential for a successful negotiation.

The White House and National Security Council have not clarified their stance on consequences for Russia if peace talks fail, reflecting uncertainty and potential division in the approach to the Ukraine conflict.