By M. Singh, Jadetimes News
Vladimir Putin reportedly considers recent battlefield gains sufficient to present a victory to the Russian public, potentially avoiding the need for further unpopular decisions such as increased spending and mobilization. is prepared to halt the war in Ukraine with a ceasefire that recognizes the current lines of control. Putin's frustration with what he perceives as Western backed efforts to impede ceasefire negotiations.
One senior Russian source, familiar with high level Kremlin discussions, indicated that while Putin can continue the fight indefinitely, he is also open to freezing the conflict. This would allow Russia to retain substantial parts of four Ukrainian regions, albeit without full control of any. During a recent press conference, Putin called for renewed peace talks that reflect the current realities on the ground.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently ruled out a ceasefire, having signed a decree in 2022 declaring any talks with Putin "impossible." He reiterated this stance, warning that a pause in fighting would benefit Russia and potentially lead to Ukraine's downfall. Both Putin and Zelenskyy dismissed a proposal from French President Emmanuel Macron for a temporary ceasefire during the Olympic Games.
that Putin believes recent gains are enough to claim victory domestically. Russian forces have intensified attacks in the Kharkiv region, with the Kremlin claiming control over several villages and cities, while Ukrainian officials maintain control over most of the area.Putin is reportedly wary of new large-scale advances, which would necessitate another nationwide mobilization, a move that previously caused a dip in his popularity. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated Russia's openness to dialogue, emphasizing that the country does not desire an "eternal war."
Putin has ruled out attending the upcoming Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland. Much of the West, including the US, remains skeptical of Russia's commitment to genuine ceasefire negotiations, with a US State Department spokesperson insisting that any peace initiative must respect Ukraine's territorial integrity. They described Russia as the main obstacle to peace.
