As U.S. initiatives to end the war in Ukraine grapple with territorial and security guarantees, a separate channel of negotiations reportedly aims at something more tangible: financial rewards. According to an analysis from The Economist, the Kremlin is claimed to have promised the Trump administration lucrative deals potentially worth up to $12 trillion, contingent upon the lifting of sanctions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has cited local intelligence indicating such commitments, which has intensified concerns among European capitals that the White House might pressure Kyiv into making painful concessions in pursuit of a Russian 'golden treasure'.

In anticipation of a meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, a note was allegedly prepared for Russia's National Security Council outlining strategies on how to persuade the American president of embarking on 'the greatest deal of all time'. This revelation brings to light not just the staggering amount involved but also the implications of such a financial maneuver on geopolitical dynamics and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It raises questions about the ethical ramifications of linking financial incentives to international diplomacy, especially in a conflict with significant human costs.

The promise of $12 trillion, however, is met with skepticism. Experts express concerns about the feasibility of such an offer, noting that the negotiations over terms would be complex and fraught with potential misinterpretations. Additionally, whether this significantly influences the course of negotiations or leads to lasting peace is still uncertain. The discourse surrounding this financial proposition thus underscores the intricate interplay of economics, politics, and ethics in international relations, showcasing that such deals, while attractive, can complicate existing diplomatic efforts.