This is reported by RBK-Ukraine referencing a report from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). This information comes from Kontrakty.UA.
The Russian publication "Meduza" has stated that the Kremlin instructed Russian state media to portray the phone conversation between Trump and Putin on February 12 as "Putin's initiative and victory," and to use Trump's name less frequently in coverage of this topic and other events.
"The Kremlin is concerned that the Russian public might perceive Trump as a more 'initiative-taking and decisive' leader than Putin, and wants Russian media to emphasize that only Putin is responsible for the outcome of the negotiations," the report says.
It is noted that the Kremlin does not want the Russian public to view Trump as a "strong leader capable of changing the situation," while seeing Putin as a passive or weak leader in comparison.
Previously, Trump was depicted in Russia as a pragmatic leader with whom Russia could collaborate.
"The Kremlin may be attempting to negatively alter the perception of Trump among the Russian public to highlight Putin's strength and power amidst reports of potential future peace talks and bilateral negotiations," analysts note.
Trump and Putin's Conversation
Recall that Trump spoke with Putin on February 12, and later with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The U.S. President expressed his desire to meet with Putin and did not rule out that the meeting could take place in Saudi Arabia.
Trump did not specify a potential date for such a meeting. The Kremlin also stated that supposedly Trump and Putin instructed their aides to begin preparations for the meeting.
Later, the American leader stated that he had "wonderful talks" with Russia and Ukraine. According to him, there is a "good opportunity to end the war."