In a recent meeting of Russia’s Security Council, President Vladimir Putin criticized Ukraine’s Armed Forces for launching what he called an armed provocation to strengthen their position in negotiations. He dismissed the idea of holding talks with a government that attacks civilians, despite employing similar tactics in the past. Putin cited comments by a Ukrainian adviser suggesting that military actions could enhance Ukraine’s negotiating position.
Meanwhile, ex-Putin adviser Sergei Markov defended Russia’s invasion of Ukraine while condemning the Kursk incursion as illegal. He admitted that the situation was humiliating for Putin and the Russian people, with thousands of refugees fleeing the region. Markov argued that Russia, unlike Ukraine, respects the rights of its people and accused Ukraine of suppressing Russian voices.
These conflicting narratives highlight the deep divide between Moscow and Kyiv, making peace negotiations seem unlikely. Kyiv’s current military actions aim to challenge the Kremlin’s narrative and sway popular opinion, particularly in regions like Kursk where information is tightly controlled. The ongoing conflict underscores the challenges of finding common ground in the war-torn region.
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