Russia's Ushakov: Improving Image in Europe Challenging Despite US Support

Yuri Ushakov, Assistant to the President of Russia, has shared his views on the current state of Russian-US relations and the challenges in improving Russia's image in Europe. He expressed confidence in the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two nations and highlighted the agreements between Putin and Trump in Alaska as a guiding principle.

Ushakov acknowledged the difficulty in overcoming negative perceptions of Russia in Europe, even with external support from the US. He believes that any rational views on Russia expressed in the West are swiftly met with harsh criticism and marginalization.

He attributed the united aversion of Europeans towards Russia to several factors, including Russia's military actions in Ukraine, imperialist policies, hybrid attacks against EU countries, and the use of energy as a political tool. Conversely, he noted that US support for Ukraine, along with strengthened transatlantic cooperation, indirectly increases pressure on Russia and reinforces European resolve.

Ushakov also stated that the current uncompromising stance of European states towards Russia limits their ability to form constructive relations with Moscow. He emphasized the importance of the agreements reached by Putin and Trump in Anchorage as a basis for coordinating positions on the Ukrainian situation.

Despite the challenges, Ushakov remains confident that ongoing diplomatic efforts between Russia and the US will bear fruit over time. He believes that improving Russia's image in Europe will require addressing the root causes of European hostility and fostering constructive dialogue between Russia and the West.