Russia is preparing for a large-scale offensive; the US recognizes that Putin is the main obstacle to ending the war in Ukraine.

Ukrainian intelligence reports suggest that Russian troops are likely preparing for a larger offensive in Ukraine. Russia is moving troops to key hotspots on the battlefield, rather than demonstrating readiness for peace talks. This week, Russian forces have seized new territories in the Donetsk region.

The head of the Center for Countering Disinformation, Andriy Kovalenko, confirmed that Russia plans to attack during the summer while dragging its feet with negotiations and talking nonsense, using the front to manipulate the peace process.

Ultimately, as the FT writes, the lack of compromise from Russian President Putin regarding the end of the war has led the US to view him as an obstacle to peace. Trump’s greatest desire is a ceasefire that could eventually lead to peace, but this has not yet been realized. Experts indicate that Russia’s stubbornness irritates Trump. These experts argue that Russia is betting on Trump eventually losing interest in trying to end this war.

Simultaneously, Estonia has stated that peace negotiations and the establishment of a just peace are impossible without Ukraine’s advantage on the battlefield.