Russia promised to reduce violence in Ukraine as a means of pursuing possible peace talks. The White House reacted with deep skepticism, with government officials suggesting that the Kremlin was simply redirecting, not ending, its invasion.
Feeding the new push for diplomacy has been the growing recognition that the Russian invasion has badly stalled, with Moscow taking huge manpower and equipment losses. Biden aides, buoyed by Ukraine’s military campaign to date, nevertheless scoffed at the suggestion that Putin was ending the war, instead believing he likely was temporarily focusing on a more winnable region, the officials said.
“We should see this as a sign that Russia is revising down its war aims,” said Kofman, “and expanding options to end this phase of the conflict while spinning it as a victory with domestic audiences.” Though some analysts believe a conversation or summit between Biden and Putin may be needed to bring the war to a close, the White House has been unwilling to conduct any direct negotiations. Instead Biden officials have left it to other world leaders, such as French President Emmanuel Macron, to convey messages to and talk with the Russian leader. Macron and Putin had a conversation on Tuesday after Biden and Macron spoke as part of a larger call.
U.S. officials theorize that the nod toward peace talks may be a feint to buy time to resupply Russia’s beleaguered forces. Moreover, a possible Russian move away from Kyiv, even a temporary one, may be a face-saving effort to cover for the extraordinary amount of losses Putin’s forces have taken. Moscow badly misjudged the strength of the Ukrainian resistance — as well as its own might — and has lost a huge amount of men and machines.
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Russia-Ukraine live updates: Ukraine intel chief says Russia plans 'Korean scenario'Firefighters battle blaze at apartment building in Makariv, Ukraine.
Read more »
Ukraine crypto donations surpass $100 million as Russia-Ukraine negotiations in Turkey beginUkraine continues to receive a substantial influx of cryptocurrency contributions, with the value now reaching over $100 million, as more... Continue reading
Read more »
Putin taking over Donbas from Ukraine could cost Russia over $20 billionUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he may be willing to compromise on the contested Donbas region, but the economic cost could be high.
Read more »
Ukraine pleads for help, says Russia wants to split nation“I’ve talked to the defenders of Mariupol today. I’m in constant contact with them. Their determination, heroism and firmness are astonishing,” Zelenskyy said in a video address.
Read more »
Ukraine pleads for help, says Russia wants to split nationUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused the West of cowardice Sunday while another top official said Russia was trying to split the nation in two, like North and South Korea.
Read more »
Live blog: Ukraine to discuss sovereignty with Russia in Türkiye talksKiev says priorities at talks in Türkiye will be 'sovereignty and territorial integrity', while a top official warns Russia is trying to split Ukraine in two, like North and South Korea, as fighting enters its 33rd day Follow our live coverage:👇
Read more »