First of all, Donald Trump is loyal to only one person in the world—Donald Trump. Everyone else—from Melania Trump to Putin and Xi Jinping—are merely props around his “greatness.” And Trump is loyal to only one country—America. But to the America he imagines. All other countries are just a backdrop for the theater of “America First.” If some country disappears from the world map, Trump might not even notice. Neither Ukraine nor Greenland is of value to him. But neither is Russia.Secondly, Trump does not like it when the props of his greatness look unattractive or do not match his idea of a perfect world. When Zelenskyy refused to play the role of a convenient prop, he got the corresponding reaction. Now, when Putin does not want to be an “adequate” part of this scenery, the reaction is similar."Those who know how to present themselves properly as props win. The best example is Mark Rutte. And those who cannot play this role would be better off stepping aside until 2029 and not getting in the way."Putin tries to pretend to be a convenient partner, but only as long as it benefits him. Narcissism and a tendency toward excessive actions have repeatedly put Putin in a foolish position in his dealings with Trump. Although, it would seem, his KGB experience should have helped him. But 25 years of unlimited power disqualify anyone. And Putin was never a good KGB officer anyway.Thirdly, “50 days of Trump” is not an invitation for Putin to continue the occupation of Ukraine. Putin will continue it anyway—regardless of sanctions or Western weapons. But Trump always gives clear deadlines to those he wants to fit into his correct picture of the world. Let’s recall Iran. No one believed that 60 days after Trump’s ultimatum, a 12-day war would begin. Now Russians do not believe it. But if they do not react adequately, Trump’s actions in 50 days could be much more serious. Yes, he will not start with his own hands—at first, he will act through ours. Including the transfer of long-range missiles with the demand to strike Moscow.Could this lead to a nuclear strike by Russia? Yes, it could. But such a strike is possible even without decisive action on our part. It is better to have means of response than not to have them at all. And yes—in the event of a nuclear strike on Ukraine—Trump may enter the war with Russia himself. Because his “scenery” would be completely destroyed. This does not mean that World War III will begin in 50 days, but the speed with which we are approaching it is definitely increasing. And yes, World War III is one of the possible scenarios for preserving Ukrainian statehood. Because in a global fire, it is easier to survive on the periphery.Fourthly—this is not an apocalyptic forecast. It is precisely Trump’s unpredictability that may force Putin to think about these 50 days. And at least imitate a peace process that will lead to a ceasefire—not on Putin’s terms, but on Trump’s. Yes, it may be a temporary pause—weeks, months, even years. But this pause will allow Ukraine to seriously prepare for the next war, create effective governance, and build deterrence that will make Putin think a hundred times before starting a new offensive.Therefore, Trump’s disappointment in the scenery is our chance. And it would be a sin not to take advantage of it.SourceAbout the author: Vitaly Portnikov, journalist, laureate of the Shevchenko National Prize of Ukraine.The editorial board does not always share the views expressed by blog authors.