Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly seeking a ceasefire in Ukraine, aiming to freeze the conflict along the current frontlines. According to sources cited by Reuters, Putin believes he has secured enough territory to claim a victory and is ready to halt further military advances. However, he faces the challenge of achieving significant breakthroughs without resorting to a mass mobilization, which could be politically unpopular.
Putin’s willingness to consider a ceasefire comes as his administration grapples with the realities of sustained military operations. Three sources revealed to Reuters that the Kremlin is wary of a nationwide mobilization, which was last partially enacted in the fall of 2022 and resulted in a notable dip in Putin’s popularity. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia is open to negotiations and that Putin does not desire an “eternal war.”
While Moscow hints at a ceasefire, fighting continues fiercely on various fronts. Ukrainian forces have reportedly halted Russian advances in the northeastern Kharkiv region and are now counter-attacking. Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky noted that Russian troops have been bogged down in street battles in Vovchansk, suffering high losses.
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