Russia ‘Not Serious’ About Peace Deal, Lindsey Graham Says
Foreign Policy
by John HaltiwangerFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lindsey Graham, a Republican senator, has expressed a starkly different view from President Donald Trump regarding Russia's intentions for peace in Ukraine. While Trump maintains that Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to negotiate an end to the conflict, Graham argues that Russia is not serious about a deal because it believes it can win militarily in the Donbas region. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Graham suggested that until Russia shows more seriousness, he would support sending Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine and imposing stricter sanctions on Moscow. He emphasized that any agreement is unlikely in the near future as Russia aims to gradually take control of the Donbas over several years.
The Donbas region has been central to the Russia-Ukraine war since 2014, with Russia initially supporting separatists and later launching a full-scale invasion in 2022. The Kremlin's demand for Ukraine to cede control of the Donbas remains a key sticking point in peace talks. Currently, Russia controls approximately 88% of the Donbas, with only parts of Donetsk still under Ukrainian influence. This territory is crucial for deterring further Russian advances into other parts of Ukraine.
Graham's stance highlights growing divisions within the Trump administration's approach to the conflict. While diplomatic efforts continue, there are signs that pressure is mounting on Ukraine to make territorial concessions. The senator's call for increased military support and economic sanctions underscores the ongoing challenges in achieving a meaningful peace deal. As the situation evolves, Graham's comments underscore the complexities of navigating relations with Russia, particularly as both sides appear to be moving in opposite directions.
This分歧 matters significantly to readers interested in politics, as it reflects broader tensions within the U.S. government regarding how to address the Ukraine conflict. Graham's position challenges Trump's narrative and raises questions about the feasibility of a swift resolution to the war. The senator's emphasis on military aid and economic pressure signals a hardline approach that could shape future U.S. policy. Understanding these differing perspectives is crucial for grasping the evolving dynamics of international diplomacy and the potential impact on global stability.
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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/14/2026