Russia has shown its real attitude to negotiations with Ukraine: ISW explains what is behind recent statements

Some figures in the Russian information space continue to emphasize that dictator Vladimir Putin is not interested in a peaceful resolution of the war against Ukraine. The Kremlin is not satisfied with negotiations that will lead to anything less than its desired "complete surrender of Kyiv."

The repetition of such narratives indicates that the aggressor is still not inclined to engage in good faith dialogue and intends to destroy the Ukrainian state by military means. This is stated in a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

The analysts drew attention to an interview in the Financial Times (FT) on December 2 with Kremlin-linked Russian oligarch, Orthodox nationalist, and founder of the ultranationalist Tsargrad newspaper Konstantin Malofeev. He said that Putin would likely reject any plan for peace talks put forward by US President-elect Donald Trump if the plan did not take into account Russia's "security concerns."

According to him, the Kremlin will consider peace talks with the Trump administration only if it reverses the US policy that allows Ukraine to use long-range weapons provided by the West to strike Russia; "removes" Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy from office; and agrees to meet with Putin to discuss the situation in Ukraine, the future of European security, the conflict in the Middle East, and Russia's growing alliance with China.

"Putin may intend to use such a meeting to get future concessions from Trump on US policy on these issues," the analysts suggested.

Malofeev also argued that the war in Ukraine "helped strengthen" Russia's relations with China, Iran, and North Korea, and revitalized Russia's economy and defense industry.

However, the ISW continues to see macroeconomic signs that Russia's economy is struggling to cope with the weight of inflation, ongoing international sanctions, and labor shortages. It will face significant challenges in 2025, assuming that Russia's war against Ukraine continues at its current pace.

Military experts reminded that the dictator and other top officials of the aggressor country have recently made similar statements. Malofeev's interview also indicates that the Kremlin is not interested in negotiating in good faith, regardless of who mediates them.

This Putin henchman does not currently hold an official position in the Russian government, but his rhetoric is important given his relationship with high-ranking Kremlin officials and the influence of Tsargrad among Russian ultranationalists. He has previously used his publication to promote Kremlin narratives that justify Russia's invasion and occupation of Ukraine and continues to openly support Putin.

"Zelenskyy recently acknowledged that Ukraine must find diplomatic solutions to end the war and ensure the return of some parts of the occupied territories (including Crimea) in the future. But Malofeev's comments indicate that Putin is still not inclined to negotiate in good faith and intends to destroy the Ukrainian state by military means," ISW said.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, the administration of US President Joe Biden promised Ukraine support to ensure its position of strength in potential negotiations with Russia. Washington will help Kyiv until the end of the current American leader's term.

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