Putin Resolute to Press Ukraine Offensive Despite Potential Impact on US Relations: Sources
Moscow – Russian President Vladimir Putin remains steadfast in his commitment to capturing additional Ukrainian territory, believing in Russia’s eventual victory and downplaying the impact of further US sanctions, according to sources within the Kremlin cited by Reuters. This determination, even as potential for improved relations with the West hinges on the outcome of the US presidential election, signals a continued escalation of the conflict.
Sources familiar with discussions in the Kremlin indicate putin’s primary goal is the complete seizure of the Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhya, and Kherson regions of Ukraine, which Russia claims as its own, followed by negotiations for a peace agreement. One source revealed that recent negotiations between Russian and Ukrainian representatives in May – three meetings held throughout the month – were largely a performative effort aimed at demonstrating to former President Donald Trump that Putin remains open to dialog, despite lacking substantial content beyond humanitarian exchanges.
while Putin reportedly values a potential rapprochement with the United States and is “concerned about Trump’s irritation,” these considerations are secondary to his military objectives. “Putin cannot afford to stop the war only because Trump wants this,” a source stated, emphasizing the domestic political ramifications within Russia should Putin halt the offensive prematurely. another source confirmed Russia sees no strategic advantage in pausing the war during its current summer offensive.
The sources also suggest Putin believes Ukraine is currently under notable military pressure, bolstering his confidence in continuing the advance. He reportedly hopes to rebuild trade relationships with the West, but is unwilling to compromise his territorial goals to facilitate that outcome.
This resolve comes amidst escalating rhetoric from Trump, who recently threatened to impose duties and other measures against Russia within ten days if Moscow doesn’t demonstrate progress towards ending the war. Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, responded by accusing Trump of issuing “ultimatums” and warning of a potential conflict with the US itself. Trump also announced that his envoy, Steve Witkoff, is highly likely to visit Russia this week.
Reuters notes that Putin publicly described recent negotiations as “positive” while acknowledging the significant differences in positions between both sides, making a swift resolution unlikely.
