In a June 2024 Saudi conference, Putin’s envoy claimed the Ukraine conflict could end within a year, yet Kyiv analysts and U.S. officials view the assertion as propaganda and warn of a longer, costlier war.
Ukrainian Envoy Seeks One‑Year End
Dmitry Kirylov, Putin’s special envoy, told a Saudi conference that Russia’s war against Ukraine could conclude within a year. He emphasized the goal toward peace, stressing that regional conflict should not expand and highlighted Russian‑US‑Saudi cooperation on energy resources.
Ukrainian Analysts Reject the Assurance
Kyiv sees Kirylov’s remarks as a propaganda act aimed at softening Russia’s image amid new sanctions. Ukrainian experts doubt the promise of a peaceful path and doubt that Putin could end hostilities without losing power, noting the Kremlin’s determination to fight to the end despite heavy losses.
U.S. Documents Show No Kremlin Compromise
Congress received documents stating Russia shows no signs of compromise despite mounting military losses. NBC sources confirm the Kremlin’s stance has remained firm since February 2022, and Washington emphasizes that a diplomatic solution requires truthful negotiations.
Sanctions Intensify, Diplomatic Pressure Mounts
The U.S. announced a new sanctions package against Rosneft and Lukoil, and the State Department signals further restrictions should the war continue. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said Trump would introduce additional sanctions to compel Putin to return to the negotiation table.
Russia Unveils New Nuclear‑Powered Devices
Putin announced tests of the underwater unmanned vehicle “Poseidon” equipped with a nuclear reactor and the missile “Bukovichnik,” also powered by nuclear energy. He claimed Poseidon outstrips Sarmat missiles and represents a unique weapon. Trump urged Putin to end the war rather than test new rockets.
Kremlin No Longer Aiming for Victory
Ukrainian experts say Russia now seeks only to exit the conflict with some gains, not an outright win. They view nuclear threats as signs of a faltering economy and battlefield failures, noting past reliance on Trump and now on Xi to justify nuclear posturing.
Putin Faces a Crucial Choice
Russian analyst Portnikow warned that when Trump stops tolerating manipulation, Putin will have to choose between ending hostilities or escalating to a level threatening Russia itself. Ukrainian experts stress there are no real signals of an end; only a narrow window could open if Trump applies stronger pressure.