Experts are sounding the alarm that Russian President Vladimir Putin is gearing up for new offensives in Ukraine, potentially dragging the conflict out for an additional nine months. This development comes despite former US President Donald Trump’s efforts to draw Putin into peace talks.
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a reputable think tank based in Washington DC, has observed Russian military plans to encircle Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region, among other strategic moves. ISW interprets these actions as clear indicators that Putin is not yet ready to call an end to the hostilities, despite massive losses that an expert said could ‘irreparably’ change Russia’s demographics.
According to ISW, Russia’s February 2024 assault on Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine is likely a template for future campaigns against other urban centers. However, military analysts suggest that capturing key locations such as Pokrovsk and Kupiansk may present greater challenges for Russian forces – even after they were bolstered by North Korean troops.
The ISW said: “The Russian military command has shown that it is willing to commit to operations that could take six to nine months to conclude.”
They added: “Russian commanders are likely operating under the assumption or direct knowledge that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not intend to end the war in Ukraine in the near future.”
Emil Kastehelmi from the OSINT analysis firm Black Bird Group commented on the sluggish pace of the Toretsk battle, noting Russia’s incremental progress and its recent advances to the town’s outskirts, reports the Express.
Despite the ongoing military activities, Putin claimed last month that Russia is “ready to negotiate” with Ukraine.
Speaking to a Russian state TV journalist, he expressed optimism about cooperation: “We believe the current president’s statements about his readiness to work together. We are always open to this and ready for negotiations.”
He added that it would be more beneficial to meet and discuss based on current realities.
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Later in January, Mr Trump took a tougher stance against Russia, threatening taxes, tariffs, and sanctions if Putin did not agree to halt the conflict. In a post on Truth Social, Mr Trump warned: “All of that being said, I’m going to do Russia, whose Economy is failing, and President Putin, a very big FAVOR. Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous War! IT’S ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE.”
He further urged for an end to the war, claiming it wouldn’t have started under his presidency: “Let’s get this war, which never would have started if I were President, over with! We can do it the easy way, or the hard way – and the easy way is always better. It’s time to “MAKE A DEAL. ” NO MORE LIVES SHOULD BE LOST!!!”
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