Putin unlikely to engage in serious Ukraine peace talks, say intelligence sources

Russian President Vladimir Putin (Courtesy: Reuters photo)

According to sources familiar with US and Western intelligence, Russian President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to seriously engage in peace talks with Ukraine unless they align with his maximalist objectives, as reported by CNN. Despite President Donald Trump’s assertion that Putin seeks to end the conflict, intelligence officials believe the Russian leader remains focused on either absorbing Ukraine into Russia or creating a weak, dependent Ukrainian state.

No change in ambitions

While Trump claimed that Putin is seeking to stop the fighting, US and Western intelligence officials argue that Putin’s goals remain unchanged. One source said that a ceasefire would only serve as a temporary respite for Russia, allowing Putin to rearm and continue his pursuit of control over Ukraine. Intelligence officials have seen no signs that Putin’s ambitions for the country have shifted, with Russia still making gradual progress on the battlefield.

Russia’s economic sustainability

Putin is reportedly viewing potential peace talks with the US as an opportunity to restore Russia’s standing on the world stage, distancing the country from its status as an international pariah. Western officials believe that Russia’s economy can likely sustain its war efforts through next year, diminishing the incentive for meaningful concessions on Ukraine.

Trump’s perspective

President Trump, on the other hand, has expressed optimism, claiming in public statements that he believes Putin wants to end the war. Trump referred to a phone call he had with Putin, saying that he believed the Russian leader wants to stop fighting. However, Western intelligence officials continue to view Putin’s actions as consistent with a long-term objective of gaining more control over Ukraine, not ending the conflict.