**Tensions Rise Between Trump and Putin: Is a Ukraine Resolution Still Feasible?**

Donald Trump's relationship with Vladimir Putin appears to be deteriorating, leading to intensified rhetoric and a range of ultimatums regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Despite this, there are glimmers of hope that negotiation could still yield a resolution. While both leaders exhibit a steadfast unwillingness to shift positions, Trump's envoy is scheduled to reconvene talks in Moscow, suggesting ongoing diplomatic efforts.

The recent dynamics between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin have taken a turn for the worse, with both leaders displaying confrontational attitudes towards each other. The Russian tabloid Moskovsky Komsomolets portrayed their relationship with a metaphor of colliding trains, highlighting the escalating tensions over the ongoing war in Ukraine.

With Putin firmly entrenched in his "Special Military Operation," the Russian leader has shown little interest in ceasing hostilities or agreeing to a long-term ceasefire. In contrast, Trump has ramped up his pressure on Russia, threatening new sanctions and tariffs on countries trading with Moscow, including India and China, while also repositioning U.S. nuclear submarines nearer to Russian waters.

As the rhetoric escalates, questions arise: Are the two nations really on a collision course, or do ongoing diplomatic efforts signal potential for a peace deal? Though tensions have risen sharply, a recent visit from Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, may open channels for negotiation.

In the initial months of Trump's second term, it appeared that U.S.-Russian relations could be on the mend. The Trump administration even sided with Russia against European condemnation at the UN. Witkoff's frequent visits to Moscow and private meetings with Putin suggested that cooperation was possible, with the Kremlin even presenting a portrait of Trump to him, signifying a warm rapport.

However, Trump's growing frustration with Putin's reluctance to cease combat in Ukraine has bubbled to the surface. The U.S. President has been vocal in condemning Russia's military actions as "disgusting" and recently issued ultimatums to Putin, the latest being a 10-day deadline for peace.

Yet experts suggest that Putin might not feel any substantial pressure from these threats. As Nina Khrushcheva of The New School notes, Trump's frequent changes in deadlines have likely diluted his leverage. Putin continues to pursue his strategic goals, refusing to back down from his demands for Ukraine's neutrality and other contentious issues.

Despite the heated exchanges, some analysts maintain that a deal remains a possibility. With Witkoff returning to Russia soon, there are hopes that he could propose cooperative offers that may entice the Kremlin to consider peace. However, with Putin's firm stance on key territorial demands and military issues, overcoming the impasse could prove challenging.

In conclusion, while the current atmosphere is fraught with tension, the appetite for negotiation isn’t entirely extinguished. Trump still views himself as a potential dealmaker, indicating that the path to a resolution in Ukraine could still be open, contingent upon forthcoming discussions.