Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to order a troop pullout from the border with Ukraine should be seen as a compromise of sorts by the Kremlin, ahead of the crucial Asia-Europe meeting (Asem) on Friday.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko should use the interface with Putin to gain leverage, specifically with regard to the conflict and the issue about gas prices — bearing in mind that a very cold winter is approaching — for which, the Kremlin claims a higher fee, having shut off Kiev’s gas exports over the non-payment of previous dues. Negotiations will not be easy, given that the truce has been a fragile one. The onus is on both leaders to offer confidence-building measures. Putin will seek to drive home any advantage he may have, but this is because he is desperate to shore up the Russian economy, which is feeling the pinch of international sanctions. Putin’s rating among ordinary Russians is high, but a faltering economy, sliding ruble, rising costs and a drop in oil prices could give rise to tension at home amid the stoking of an economic-warfare with the West and Europe.
