FILE PHOTO: Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during his annual press conference in Moscow, Russia December 14, 2023. Alexander Zemlianichenko/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
DNYUZ/New York Times: Putin Quietly Signals He Is Open to a Cease-Fire in Ukraine
President Vladimir V. Putin’s confidence seems to know no bounds. Buoyed by Ukraine’s failed counteroffensive and flagging Western support, Mr. Putin says that Russia’s war goals have not changed.
Addressing his generals on Tuesday, he boasted that Ukraine was so beleaguered that Russia’s invading troops were doing “what we want.” “We won’t give up what’s ours,” he pledged, adding dismissively, “If they want to negotiate, let them negotiate.”
But in a recent push of back-channel diplomacy, Mr. Putin has been sending a different message: He is ready to make a deal.
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WNU Editor: I do not know what source(s) in the US government the New York Times is using, but I see no evidence that the Kremlin is interested in a ceasefire right now. It is true that Putin has signaled a certain willingness to talk to Ukraine (link here), but freezing the conflict/ceasefire has always been publicly rejected by Putin and everyone below him. The view in Moscow is that a ceasefire will only be used as an excuse to rearm and rebuild Ukraine's military machine to continue the war at a later date.
So what is the current Russian war policy/strategy? From my vantage point the Kremlin's war goals are crystal clear. Winning the war on Russia's terms and the unconditional surrender of the Ukraine government.
Reports Say Putin Is Privately Signaling An Interest In A Ceasefire In Ukraine
Putin Quietly Signaling Openness to Ukraine Ceasefire Talks – NYT -- Moscow Times
Report: Putin privately signals interest in ceasefire in Ukraine -- USA Today
Putin could be open to a pause in fighting amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report -- The Hill
Putin may be open to cease-fire with Ukraine after nearly 2 years of war: report -- NYPost
Putin signals desire to halt hostilities to thwart Western aid, says ISW -- The New Voice of Ukraine
Despite Public Rhetoric, Putin Secretly Open to Ceasefire in Ukraine – Report -- Kyiv Post