According to sources cited by Bloomberg, European officials have concluded that Russian President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to soften his position regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. One official mentioned that Moscow’s strategy over the next six months may involve intensifying attacks on Ukraine’s energy and heating infrastructure. While Ukrainian media sources have reported discussions of a possible energy truce, the Kremlin may simultaneously escalate hybrid attacks and political interference in European countries to undermine support for Ukraine.
Bloomberg reports that negotiations involving U.S. representatives Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff have had no impact on the Kremlin’s intentions. It is believed that Putin aims to improve Moscow’s standing by next spring while keeping the Russian economy afloat. Another source expressed doubt that serious negotiations to end the war would take place at least until next year.
In context, Kushner and Witkoff visited Moscow on September 5, where they met with Putin. According to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, the American officials presented a “range of considerations” regarding potential pathways to resolve the conflict. Following the three-hour meeting, Reuters reported no breakthroughs were achieved. The following day, they traveled to Kyiv for their first visit to Ukraine.
During a press conference in Kyiv on September 6, Witkoff stated that Washington seeks to return to a trilateral negotiation format involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia.
