U.S. intelligence agencies believe that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s objectives in the war against Ukraine remain unchanged, despite ongoing diplomatic contacts and statements about a possible peaceful settlement. According to Reuters, citing several sources familiar with U.S. intelligence assessments, the Kremlin continues to aim for maximum control over Ukraine and shows no signs of abandoning these intentions. These conclusions were set out in analytical reports prepared at the end of September and, according to the sources, have not changed since then.

According to U.S. and European intelligence assessments, Putin’s views on the conflict are strategic and long-term in nature and do not depend directly on the current dynamics of the fighting or on economic pressure from the West. Intelligence officials believe that Moscow views the war not only as a confrontation with Ukraine, but also as part of a broader effort to restore Russia’s influence in the region and to reshape Europe’s security architecture. Sources also note that Russia may be using negotiations primarily as a tool to buy time and strengthen its positions, rather than as a genuine attempt to reach a compromise.

Russia currently controls about 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including Crimea and significant parts of the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions. At the same time, the U.S. administration has publicly stated that diplomatic efforts are making progress and that a possible peace plan is being discussed, including security guarantees for Ukraine. However, the territorial issue remains the main obstacle to an agreement, as Kyiv rejects any proposals that would imply recognition of the loss of its territories.

U.S. intelligence officials emphasize that there are currently no signs that Moscow is ready to make meaningful concessions that could lead to a swift end to the war. In this context, analysts warn that the conflict is likely to remain prolonged, even if the negotiation process continues at the political level.

#RUSSIA

#UKRAINE

21.12.2025 05:02