Malofeyev seemed to speak on Putin’s behalf when he denounced Donald Trump’s Ukraine-Russia peace offer—before negotiations had even started. “For the talks to be constructive,” he said, “we need to talk not about the future of Ukraine but the future of Europe and the world.”

“Trump and his administration should understand that the Russian mainstream has shifted to the right,” Verkhovsky added. For Russia’s growing ultranationalist faction, he said, Trump’s “plan to let Kyiv stay independent would not be acceptable.”

I don’t think Trump reacts well to being disrespected, whereas a more normal politician wouldn’t make major decisions based on personal feelings. I suppose we’ll see what the Russians say to Trump’s face, but if this is going to be their attitude then his response might be dramatic (especially since Zelenskyy is sure to flatter him).

I find it strange how racist and ultra-nationalists ideas have taken root in Russia when its predecessor (USSR) defeated the Nazis and prided itself in its ethnic diversity. Compare that to the US where its long history of racism since the beginning has allowed the formation of racial and ethnic tensions.

“Ultra nationalist” ideas have always been mainstream among a strong majority of russians. The framing might have been a bit more subtle, but end the result (and desires) has always been the same.

Until russians are forced to confront their deep rooted genocidal imperialism, they will not change.

The “russians are all innocent and afraid” rhetoric is not doing them any favours.