Confrontation with Zelensky: ISW evaluates Putin's interest in ending the war in Ukraine.

Russia continues to strengthen its military power

According to data from the American Institute for the Study of War, Russia continues to strengthen its military power, indicating its disinterest in negotiations or a prolonged peace with Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia is creating new army divisions, developing military production, and plans to increase its military personnel by more than 100,000 soldiers. Additionally, Russia is deepening military cooperation with North Korea.

ISW also cannot verify the status of the formation of the 14 units previously reported. Zelensky emphasized that Russia's efforts to form forces, restructure, and increase defense production clearly demonstrate Putin's disinterest in negotiations with Ukraine and his desire to continue the war.

Analysts believe that such actions by Russia indicate that it is Russia, not Ukraine, that is refusing good-faith negotiations and trying to prolong the war, creating conditions for a possible conflict with NATO.

Zelensky stated that he is ready for peace negotiations with Putin if this is the only way to achieve peace in Ukraine. However, the Kremlin considers his words about readiness for negotiations to be 'empty'.

According to estimates from the Institute for the Study of War, Putin stated that the Kremlin is ready for negotiations with the U.S. regarding the war with Ukraine, but conditions for full capitulation of Ukraine are set.