The situation in this world is becoming increasingly muddled and unpredictable. Trump has misjudged the Chinese, Putin is not backing down and Iran is too big a chunk for the Americans. In addition, there is historic instability in the financial markets.

Trump's desire to reach an agreement with Putin is palpable. He has many irons in the fire - too many? Witkoff is not sure of the facts, and a lack of historical awareness could become a stumbling block. Putin is waiting - because he can.