Diplomat: For Putin, "negotiations" are just conditions for Ukraine's surrender

He shared his opinions on Espreso TV.

"Putin has always claimed that he is open to negotiations. This was the case in 2014 and again from 2021 to 2024. But for him, these so-called negotiations are just demands for Ukraine's capitulation, for NATO to dissolve, and for the U.S. to pull its troops out of Europe. Our partners need to understand that Ukraine is not just Putin's goal - it's also his tool to assert his dominance in Europe. He might be ready to negotiate, but I don't believe he is open to a diplomatic resolution to this war," Khara explained.

The expert emphasized that the Russian dictator is willing to send thousands of his troops into “meat assaults” in order to show that he is making progress at the front.

"Everyone knows that when the Russians make statements, they are usually lying. Secondly, Putin is confident that he can get more. He is proving this with the situation at the front, particularly in eastern Ukraine. He is sacrificing large numbers of personnel and equipment to create the illusion of progress. His goal is to convince the West that supporting Ukraine is futile, as Ukraine is losing. Putin hopes this will lead to concessions from the West, he does not need any compromises," the expert explained.

• Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that the United States may soon release declarations regarding a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, the demarcation line between the two countries, and security guarantees for Kyiv.