Every time negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S. appear to gain momentum, Moscow introduces a new allegation — drone attacks, assassination attempts, nuclear plots, sabotage — that threatens to stall or derail the process.
Ukrainian officials and Western analysts say the pattern is no coincidence.
A high-level Ukrainian official familiar with the course of the negotiations told the Kyiv Independent that the “nonsense” Russia is spreading is intended to influence the talks and divert attention from Moscow’s unwillingness to seek compromise.
As Russian negotiators show little flexibility on concessions, the Kremlin appears to weaponize the diplomatic track — testing Washington’s reactions, seeking leverage, and undermining Kyiv’s credibility.
I don’t think it favours their military at all. I think the war is grinding the Russian military and economy into dust. The prolonging of the facade is only done because Putin is backed into a corner. If peace is actually declared he has to face the music at home, something he is not prepared to do.
Keeping the war going is the only thing Putin knows will keep him alive. He’s not winning though, as much as he’s trying.