Russia may withdraw from certain positions, stop attacks - military analyst Hetman

Military analyst Oleksii Hetman said this on Espreso TV. 

“The head of the Wagner PMC, Prigozhin, said that it was necessary to end the so-called 'special military operation', as if the goal had been achieved. Why is it dangerous? The Russians can withdraw from some positions and stop attacking. Then they can say to the whole world that they have stopped fighting, are not shooting anywhere and are seeking peace, while we, Ukrainians, do not want to sign any agreements. Saying that we are a party of war and want to continue fighting, attacking instead of negotiating,” he said.

According to Hetman, the Russian troops may make such a cunning move.

“They can step back, stop and say that the 'special military operation' is over, they want peace, but Ukrainians and those who support them continue to want war. So let's negotiate together and convince Ukrainians and partners that the war is over. It is better to solve issues at the negotiating table than on the battlefield,” the expert said.

He reminded that the Ukrainian military and political leadership has repeatedly said that all talks with Russia can take place after all troops are withdrawn from the territory of Ukraine and the borders within the 1991 borders are restored.

“Such conversations can affect our partners and citizens in those countries, who may say that the Russians are no longer at war and are striving for peace. Unfortunately, this can happen. I think our diplomats have already developed countermeasures and counterarguments to such possible actions. For me personally, it looks like a political danger,” Hetman summarized.