As per the article: Oleksandr Merezhko. Without knowing more about him, he does seem genuinely far from being on Russia’s payroll or part of the proto-fascist elements (beyond potentially the usual accidentally being a useful idiot like many centrist liberals end up being, sadly). Seems more like an old school centrist out of his depth, but with genuine convictions for liberalism, for what it’s worth.

My guess is that he either completely misestimated what Trump really is about - or maybe put forth the nomination to bait his narcissist side into doing more, with the prize serving as a carrot on a stick. Either way, he was quite wrong in hoping for Trump doing much to end the war.