The Kremlin announces the continuation of the war

The objectives set by the Russian authorities have not yet been achieved. “Western intervention in support of Ukraine has turned the conflict into a broader confrontation between Russia and Western countries,” Peskov stated. He assured that Moscow remains open to achieving the goals of the conflict through diplomatic means. However, Ukraine and European nations reject this approach, and therefore, the “special military operation” will continue.

The conditions for ending Russia’s military actions in Ukraine include the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the entire Donbas region, Ukraine’s agreement to adopt a neutral status, and the lifting of Western sanctions imposed on Moscow. Meeting these demands would allow Russia to freely control a significant portion of Ukraine—if not the majority of it—should there be a change in the country’s ruling government.

The Russian side has not announced the date of the next round of negotiations with Ukraine. Three such meetings in the Ukraine–US–Russia format took place in January and February. The Ukrainian side reported that the next round of talks is tentatively scheduled for around February 27.

Russia has been unable to achieve its objectives in Ukraine. The main obstacle remains the Ukrainian army, which has continuously resisted the invasion for four years. Moreover, Ukraine is supported by the West—both financially and militarily. Russia must also contend with the extensive sanctions imposed on it due to the ongoing war. The aggressor is forced to find new ways to circumvent Western measures, which it does with some success—for example, through the operations of the so-called “shadow fleet” transporting Russian oil under sanctions. The West, however, is aware of these activities and is striving to respond accordingly.