Putin acknowledges defeat in Kursk operation - Ukraine's General Malomuzh

He shared his opinions on Espreso TV.

"Before Ukraine’s Kursk operation, when Russia was pushing forward in directions like Pokrovsk, Kramatorsk, Toretsk, and Kurakhove, and still capturing some settlements, the rhetoric was very different. Just two weeks ago, Putin said he wasn't ready for negotiations. Ten days ago, Peskov stated there would be no talks with Ukraine. But five days ago, Putin said he was open to negotiations, and yesterday he confirmed it again. This shift shows Russia's use of various tactics to confuse us, our allies, and third-party nations like China, India, and Brazil, who are advancing their peace initiatives," Malomuzh explained.

Read also: Another "peaceful" statement from Putin: what does it mean?

General Malomuzh explained why Putin’s recent peace rhetoric and attempts to influence China, India, and Brazil have emerged.

“Putin wants these countries to pressure us and the West into accepting his version of a peaceful settlement. He’s aware that he’s already lost the Kursk operation, which is a significant strategic defeat. He knows he can’t capture Pokrovsk or advance in other directions. Moreover, he sees that Ukraine is prepared for sustained defensive actions. Russia is losing over 1,300 troops daily, and in the past two months, it has lost up to 75,000 soldiers - losses that can’t be quickly replaced. Russia lacks the resources to adequately prepare, train, and deploy new forces to the front,” Malomuzh said.

According to the Ukrainian army general, Putin has recognized that Ukraine will not engage in his prolonged war of attrition but will instead strike where it will have the most impact.

“Putin’s rhetoric has changed, but he needs allies and is looking for a compromise because there’s no other option for him. He’s ready to sacrifice some of his 'gains' and even make concessions. However, we understand this is a cunning game aimed at halting our offensive operations,” Malomuzh explained.

• Ihor Chalenko, a political and economic expert and head of the Center for Analysis and Strategies, asserts that the Kursk operation has severely shaken Putin.