In Pursuit of Peace: The Great Gamble in Ukraine's Future

U.S. intelligence warns that Russian President Vladimir Putin persists in his aim to reclaim Ukrainian territories, clashing with Donald Trump’s efforts for a peace deal. Despite progress on security guarantees, differences remain over territory, as Putin's persistent territorial claims challenge U.S., Ukrainian, and European negotiators.

U.S. intelligence reports reveal that Russian President Vladimir Putin is still intent on seizing all of Ukraine, contradicting statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who claims Putin seeks to end the conflict. These reports align with European leaders' assessments and dismiss assertions of peace intentions.

While Trump's team pushes for a peace deal involving territorial withdrawals by Ukraine, U.S. intelligence suggests otherwise. Negotiators report progress on Ukraine's security against Russian aggression, but conditions like ceding territory pose obstacles. Ukraine, backed by stern public opinion, remains resistant to territorial concessions.

As negotiations proceed, Putin maintains unyielding territorial demands despite recent military advances, perpetuating the conflict. The U.S. administration contends with the challenge of balancing diplomacy with strategic defense commitments for Ukraine's sovereignty, amid uncertainties around Putin's intentions.

(With inputs from agencies.)