WASHINGTON(AP)-Amid a major Ukrainian counteroffensive, the United States must carefully navigate the complexities of a clash between a powerful mercenary force and Russian forces. On the surface, the dispute may be in U.S. interests, but U.S. officials are approaching it cautiously. Washington has denied involvement in the conflict and declined to comment on its possible impact on the Ukraine war.
This strategic approach aims to prevent Russian President Vladimir Putin from using the rhetoric of US officials to gain Russian support against Western adversaries. Even President Joe Biden, known for his off-script statements, sticks to official accounts. U.S. officials stressed that the Russian conflict is domestic and cautioned against ratings and statements that Putin could abuse. Their cautious response is aimed at depriving Putin of any chance of blaming the West for the unrest and gaining public support.
President Biden admitted that neither the United States nor NATO was involved in the conflict. In a video call with allies, he showed a united front and stressed the need to stop Putin from blaming the West and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
Biden and his officials have refrained from making immediate judgments, considering the impact of the Wagner Group’s 22-hour coup on Russia’s war in Ukraine, the role of Yevgeny Prigozhin, and its far-reaching implications for Russia itself. I recognize the need.
In his first public appearance since the coup, Putin accused “Russia’s enemies” – including Kyiv neo-Nazis, Western patrons and other traitors – of dividing and weakening the country. They say they misjudged their efforts.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russia was investigating whether Western intelligence services were involved in Prigozhin’s coup, stressing the seriousness of the situation and the possibility of external interference.
During the turbulent weekend, US diplomats remained in contact with Russian diplomats, stressing that the US sees the issue as an internal matter for Russia and is a neutral bystander. Former US Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul said Putin has accused the US of various past incidents aimed at undermining public support for challenging the Russian government. The US and NATO are careful not to take the side of Putin or Prigozhin.
With China and Russia working closely together, the White House is closely monitoring China’s response to Mr. Wagner’s coup. Russia’s recent developments have unsettled Chinese leaders, and the United States is keen to understand the potential implications for Sino-Russian relations.
President Biden promised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that the United States will continue to support Ukraine’s defense, sovereignty and territorial integrity no matter what happens in Russia. The Pentagon is expected to announce major military aid, including armored vehicles and missiles for air defense systems.
The United States continues to be cautious in its response to the conflict with Russia, arguing that the internal affairs of the Russian people affect its leadership. By avoiding inflammatory language and analysis, the United States is trying to deprive Putin of the opportunity to take advantage of the situation.
The impact of the Ukrainian war and instability on Sino-Russian relations continues to be studied. Meanwhile, the United States remains firmly committed to Ukraine’s defense and territorial integrity.
