Bloomberg: Putin Wants War to End by Year-End on His Terms
Bloomberg writes that Vladimir Putin wants the war in Ukraine to end by the end of the year, but with control of Donbas and a security agreement confirming Russian territorial gains.
TL;DR
- Putin reportedly wants the war in Ukraine to end by the end of the year under conditions that Moscow can present as a victory.
- Key Russian demands include full control of Donbas and a broader security agreement with Europe confirming territorial gains.
- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied that Putin has set any specific deadline for ending the war.
- Ukrainian drone attacks are inflicting significant losses on Russian forces and striking targets deep within Russia.
- War fatigue is growing among Russian citizens, and some members of the elite are reportedly uneasy.
- Some high-ranking officials believe the war has reached a stalemate with no clear resolution.
- Ukraine and its allies increasingly believe Russia's offensive is losing momentum.
- Drones have become a crucial factor in the conflict.
- European diplomats observe a darkening mood in Russia, with Ukrainian attacks increasing insecurity in Moscow.
- Analysts suggest Russia will likely need to conduct further partial mobilization within the next 12 months.
- Putin stated after the Victory Day parade that the matter is close to ending but remains serious.
- Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) see no signs that Moscow genuinely plans to stop the war, believing the Kremlin remains committed to maximalist goals.
- An aide to the Russian president stated the war will continue until Ukraine withdraws its forces from Donbas.