Putin is open to freezing war in Ukraine under one condition

Informants emphasized that the dictator could negotiate a ceasefire, recognizing the current front lines. Formally, this means that the Russians would not withdraw from the territories they occupied after the brutal invasion began in 2022.

However, Kyiv previously stated that negotiations would begin only when Moscow agrees to return to the status quo before the war erupted.

Three Russian sources contacted by Reuters noted that Putin "expressed frustration" during talks with his advisors regarding the "Western-backed attempts to stymie negotiations." The dictator also pointed out Volodymyr Zelensky's statement that he would not conduct peace talks with Moscow as long as Putin remains in power.

"Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire—to freeze the war," a person who worked with the dictator, quoted by Reuters, said.

Dmitry Peskov, Putin's press secretary, responded to a request for comment on the agency's findings. He noted that the Russian leader had repeatedly declared earlier that his country is "open to dialogue." He emphasized that the Kremlin does not intend to wage an "eternal war."

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Defense of Ukraine did not comment on the matter.

Anonymous Reuters sources stressed that Putin would like to exploit the Russian army's current advantage on the front. The dictator believes the gains achieved are sufficient to present the war as a "victory" to the citizens.