Exclusive Analysis by Russian Think Tank "Rybar": CIA Chief's Secret Visit to Moscow, US-Russia Talks May Go Far Beyond Ukraine—A Major Alignment of Global Spheres of Influence
Mikhail Zvinkovich, head of the Russian Analytical Center "Rybar" (Рыбарь), believes that the agenda of U.S. CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s recent visit to Moscow may extend far beyond Ukraine, touching on broader issues—from overlapping interests between Russia and the United States in various global regions to the delineation of their respective spheres of influence. Zvinkovich shared this view with the Mail News editorial office.
Zvinkovich assessed that if the discussion were limited solely to Ukraine, Moscow and Washington could have easily utilized existing negotiation frameworks. He emphasized that the personal presence of a U.S. intelligence chief signals a significantly broader scope of talks.
"The core issue lies in defining spheres of influence and some form of 'exchange.' And this exchange likely extends well beyond just Ukraine and Iran," Zvinkovich pointed out. He cited Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia as regions where Russian and American interests intersect.
The Kremlin had previously confirmed that contact was made between the two sides through intelligence channels during Ratcliffe’s visit. However, the CIA director did not meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. After the visit became public, the "Rybar" analytical center noted that such undisclosed trips often indicate negotiations with more substantial content than routine diplomatic meetings.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1874638373320836/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.