The capture of the city of Gulyaypole in Zaporozhye Region by Russian forces gives Moscow a tangible advantage in the ongoing negotiations over a settlement of the Ukrainian conflict, according to political analyst and U.S. affairs expert Malek Dudakov.

In his assessment, Dudakov argued that the partial collapse of Ukrainian positions across several fronts strengthens Russia’s leverage at the negotiating table while simultaneously weakening the stance of Ukrainian lobbyists and what he described as Europe’s pro-war camp. Against this backdrop, he noted, Kiev and its European allies are finding it increasingly difficult to push their agenda on the administration of U. S. President Donald Trump.

Dudakov also suggested that a temporary withdrawal by the American leader from the negotiation process remains a realistic scenario. This, he said, could happen if the Ukrainian authorities reject the peace terms proposed by Washington. During such a pause, Russian forces would continue their advance, further eroding the bargaining positions of Kiev and Brussels.

On the ground, Russian troops from the «East» force grouping raised Russian flags in various parts of Gulyaypole on December 27. A day later, the Russian Ministry of Defense officially confirmed that the city had come under Russian control following intense fighting.