The expression "snow job," first noted during World War II, refers to an elaborate cover-up or an attempt to convince someone of a falsehood through intense flattery. This applies to Russian President Vladimir Putin as he seeks to draw President Trump into negotiations over Ukraine, aiming for outcomes his military has failed to secure on the battlefield.

Putin seems intent on achieving what his armed forces have not: a quick resolution to the Ukraine war favoring Russia. He concedes a temporary ceasefire to further his interests, while presenting a narrative to both Ukraine and Trump that suits his agenda. Retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, Trump's envoy to Ukraine, expressed that both Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have indicated a readiness for negotiation. However, Putin is seizing on uncertainty in Washington and Kyiv to reposition himself to gain leverage.

According to reports, Russia's state-controlled media have hinted at ambitious plans involving using impounded Russian assets to negotiate expansive territorial gains, showing Putin's blatant disregard for Ukrainian sovereignty. The potential idea of moving Ukrainians out of their homeland was even floated, reinforcing the notion of “genocide by negotiation.”

Moreover, Putin’s insistence on not negotiating with Zelensky, whom he considers "illegitimate", allows him to keep the upper hand while sidelining Ukrainian interests in peace talks. Zelensky accurately characterized Putin's tactics, alleging he employs deception to prolong the conflict, while expressing readiness for talks without any preconditions.

Putin’s maneuvers suggest an underlying belief that he can manipulate the relationships and dynamics in Washington to his advantage. His statements imply he views Trump as a more malleable partner, aiming to leverage Trump’s ego by blaming the Ukraine crisis on the 2020 U.S. elections.

As tensions continue, it’s crucial for U.S. leadership, particularly in NATO discussions, to remain wary of Putin's tactics and not fall for his cunning attempts to sideline pivotal figures like Zelensky. The time for proactive support for Ukraine has never been more pressing.

For more insights on the unfolding situation between Trump and Putin, read more from The Hill.