Russian-controlled areas may be recognized in an armistice agreement, according to close sources. President Putin expressed disappointment with Western efforts to obstruct negotiations and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s refusal of peace talks, as reported by Reuters citing five anonymous Russian sources. Despite recent territorial gains, Mr. Putin wants to end the fighting and avoid a nationwide mobilization of reserve troops, which could lead to societal tensions and dissatisfaction among veterans returning to civilian life.
Western analysts believe that Mr. Putin appointed economist Andrei Belousov as Russia’s Defense Minister to strengthen the country’s economy in preparation for a prolonged conflict. While peace negotiations and a ceasefire agreement remain distant, sources suggest that any agreement is unlikely as long as President Zelensky remains in power, unless Russia directly involves the United States. The US State Department has criticized Russia for obstructing negotiation efforts and emphasized the need to respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and internationally recognized borders.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated that Putin is ready for dialogue to achieve Russia’s goals and highlight Moscow’s desire to avoid prolonged conflict. Ukrainian authorities and the US State Department have not yet commented on the information provided by Reuters.
