The US is increasing pressure on Russia to bring an end to the war, as stated by US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker. However, US intelligence reports presented to Congress indicate that Putin shows no intention of stopping hostilities. Experts note this signals a shift in rhetoric rather than a change in Russia’s core objectives; American statements now publicly justify the imposition of sanctions, citing Putin’s reluctance for peace as a major reason.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has announced potential sanctions, although no formal legal framework exists yet—his statement is viewed as a declaration rather than a binding document. Russian officials have likewise adjusted their messaging, with Putin expressing readiness to allow Ukrainian and foreign media into front-line enclaves in eastern Ukraine if a temporary ceasefire is guaranteed. Ukraine’s Joint Forces Group has denied reports of Russian encirclements in Kupiansk and Pokrovsk, affirming heavy ongoing fighting and a difficult situation.
Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev, speaking at an investment conference in Saudi Arabia, suggested that the war could end within a year through diplomatic channels—a point echoed in recent rhetoric from Lavrov and Putin regarding peace talks and willingness to sign a non-aggression pact with NATO and the EU. But experts see this as a negotiation tactic to delay substantive progress, arguing that Russia’s real position remains unchanged.
The West, including the US, recognizes Moscow’s diplomatic maneuvers, thus awaiting tangible Russian steps to end the war rather than declarations. Trump himself is staying cautious, avoiding radical moves, which presents a challenge for the Kremlin and could facilitate a balanced settlement process.
