Putin first on US plan: true intentions of the Kremlin regarding the war.

According to ТСН: Russian leader Vladimir Putin commented for the first time on the US peace initiative aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine. Initially, his statements were softer, but later he returned to his usual ultimatums.

Reconciliatory statements and tough demands

In analyzing his speech, the publication noted that at the beginning, Putin demonstrated a willingness to negotiate.

In particular, he said that Donald Trump's plan could serve as "a basis for future agreements." Russia allegedly is open to "serious" discussions and ready to talk about security issues in Europe.

However, the terms "discuss" and "agree" have different meanings, and this does not imply a readiness for compromise.

Gradually, as the issues became more specific, Putin's speech became tougher, returning to familiar themes.

Territorial disputes

During the discussion of contentious issues, he identified the recognition of "Russian sovereignty" over Crimea and Donbas as a "key moment" in negotiations with the US. This point became the basis of the initial 28-point peace plan, which turned out to be unacceptable for Ukraine.

Putin also warned Kyiv and its European partners about their ceasefire demands, stating:

"Ukrainian forces must withdraw their troops from the territories they occupy, and then hostilities will cease. If they do not leave, we will achieve this by force."

True intentions of Moscow

Such statements can hardly be considered a sign of a desire for peace. They indicate a tough position with unchanged demands.

As journalists note, Russia is trying to achieve victory both on the battlefield and at the negotiating table.

Furthermore, Putin expressed concern about the legitimacy of Vladimir Zelensky's presidency, claiming that reaching a legally binding agreement with Ukraine becomes impossible.

This looks like another maneuver by Moscow, which prolongs the process. Essentially, Russia does not consider itself responsible for the lack of a peace plan.

Therefore, when US envoy Steve Witkoff visits Moscow next week for negotiations, he is unlikely to receive unconditional agreement on the latest US peace plan.

This situation indicates a complex and tense atmosphere in the negotiations. The positions of the parties remain far apart, complicating the prospects for achieving peace in the region. The world's attention will be focused on how events unfold in the coming days.