The article discusses how oligarchs manipulate geopolitical situations for their advantage, likening it to a game of three-card monte. It illustrates this with examples from Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine.
On the Russian side, Vladimir Putin seeks to establish an expanded Russian influence rather than just territorial gains, using the war in Ukraine to promote a form of authoritarian nationalism. In contrast, Donald Trump’s negotiation efforts are portrayed as a cover for securing financial benefits from frozen Russian assets and lucrative deals, with significant personal profit for Trump and his associates as the main objective.
Ukraine’s leadership, while focused on defending its territory, is also implicated in corruption, with officials enriching themselves through schemes that undermine the war effort. The article emphasizes that the war serves not only the interests of military contractors but also the financial ambitions of oligarchs on all sides.
The timing of proposed peace negotiations coincided with a corruption scandal in Ukraine, which may have exploited Ukraine’s weakened position. Trump’s proposal includes investing frozen Russian assets in U.S.-led reconstruction of Ukraine, aiming for significant profits for American interests while presenting it as a peace initiative.
Putin believes the war will yield Russian successes, with an aim to diminish Ukraine’s military capabilities. The article concludes that while some U.S. defense contractors may profit from the war, Russian oligarchs have gained the most, reinforcing the idea that oligarchy thrives during major political and economic upheaval. Ultimately, the article frames the situation as a battle between Russian imperial ambitions and Ukrainian sovereignty amid a chaotic environment of oligarchical gains.
