'The dictator dance': Putin using 'every excuse in the book' to avoid Zelenskyy meeting

Ukraine Conflict & International Relations - The Congressman cannot disclose classified briefings but acknowledges publicly available information indicates Putin seeks excuses to proceed with a summit, avoiding direct engagement [2] - Strong sanctions are deemed necessary if Putin doesn't quickly pursue a summit or ceasefire [3] - Long-term solutions require security guarantees from both the US and European partners to keep Putin in check [8] US Politics & Russia - There is bipartisan support in the Senate for a sanctions package [4] - Trump is revisiting the 2016 election and Russia's involvement, despite intelligence confirmations of Russian interference [4][5] - Trump's administration is accused of backing off threats and demands for a ceasefire, instead of holding Putin accountable [7] Security & Intelligence - Concerns are raised about the strategy and coordination behind the deployment of National Guard troops in Washington DC [9][10][11] - The President has consistently cut the budget for Washington DC security [12] - Revoking security clearances of intelligence officials is seen as a dangerous political game [13][14][15][16]