Bloomberg agency, citing sources from Western intelligence services, reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not ready to compromise in negotiations to stop the war with Ukraine. According to the sources, the Kremlin is refusing to compromise on the issues of occupied territories, the placement of European peacekeeping forces, and Ukraine's neutrality.
Putin's position and analysis of Western intelligence services
Sources from Western intelligence services indicate that Putin has set "maximalist" demands that Ukraine and Western countries cannot accept before entering negotiations. He has also clearly stated that he is ready to continue the war if he cannot achieve his goals.
Bloomberg notes that the conclusions of Western intelligence services contradict US President Donald Trump's statement that Putin is ready for peace. On March 7, Trump told reporters, "To be honest, it's difficult to work with Ukraine because they don't have a strong position in negotiations."
Kremlin's response and Ukraine negotiations
Russian President's press secretary Dmitry Peskov denied such information from Western intelligence services. He emphasized that Ukraine must "take the first step" to start negotiations for a peaceful resolution of the conflict, and Russia prefers diplomatic solutions.
"Russia strives for peace, and we prefer to achieve our goals through diplomatic means," Peskov said.
On March 11, important negotiations are taking place between representatives of Ukraine and the US in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. According to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Washington is considering the possibility of restoring military aid to Ukraine depending on the outcomes of this meeting. Additionally, according to the Financial Times, Ukraine will propose a partial ceasefire with Russia during the negotiations in Jeddah.
What to expect from the negotiations?
Putin's position is maintaining tension for Ukraine and Western countries. Although Russia has stated its readiness for negotiations, it actually aims to force Kyiv to take the first step.
Depending on the outcome of the negotiations in Jeddah, the strategies of the US and Ukraine may change. If Kyiv proposes a partial ceasefire, it could be seen as the first step towards starting peace negotiations with Russia.
However, Western intelligence services emphasize that Putin's unwillingness to compromise could complicate the negotiation process further. Consequently, it remains unclear how Ukraine and its Western partners will approach involving Russia in negotiations.
