Trump, Putin Claims on Ukraine Contradicted by Western Intel
In contradiction to claims by Presidents Trump and Putin, U.S. and European intelligence, including the CIA, reports that while Ukrainian forces near Kursk Oblast face intense Russian pressure, they are not encircled. Trump’s assertions followed a Russian counteroffensive, partially aided by North Korean troops, which reversed earlier Ukrainian gains. This intelligence directly counters Trump’s statements, made before a call with Putin aimed at negotiating a ceasefire, further highlighting the divergence between intelligence assessments and political narratives. Despite the intelligence, Trump’s continued claims appear to prioritize his personal relationship with Putin over geopolitical strategy.