President Donald Trump's push to broker a peace deal between Kyiv and Moscow reflects less an instinct for mediation than an impulse to appease. He has acted as Russian President Vladimir Putin's henchman — leaving Russia emboldened, Ukraine isolated, allies abandoned and international security at risk.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discovered this harsh reality when he, earlier this year, sought Trump's support to deliver a strong response to Russia's unprovoked invasion. Against all expectations, he received no assurances — just public humiliation.

Trump's blunt tone and abrasive treatment of a partner under siege revealed that under his presidency, Washington's foreign policy will be driven by self-interest, not commitment and values.

By making overtures to Moscow, Trump is

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