In a strategic move to influence the West, the Kremlin seems to be back at its old game, aiming to coerce Ukraine into making concessions and entering negotiations on terms that favour Russia. The American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) warns that Moscow is intensifying its narrative, supposedly showcasing Russian interest in peace talks. However, analysts suggest that lurking in the shadows of this power play are also the ever-watchful eyes of China.
Speculations arise that the Kremlin is bolstering its narrative of feigned interest in negotiations, just as Ukraine gears up for a planned counteroffensive. The cunning intention behind this move? To dissuade the West from continuing its unwavering support for Ukraine, as the ISW astutely evaluates.
While Russian President Vladimir Putin openly claimed in his conversation with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva that Russia is “open to political and diplomatic dialogue,” he was quick to point fingers at Kyiv and its Western backers for blocking any progress. But don’t be fooled by Putin’s words. Experts emphasize that the Kremlin has neither laid any substantial groundwork for negotiations nor abandoned its ultimate goal of forcing the Ukrainian government into submission.
Yet, this geopolitical chess game doesn’t end with Russia. Enter China, the silent player with ambitions of its own. On Friday, Moscow welcomed Li Hui, the Chinese envoy responsible for Ukrainian affairs. Analysts suspect that China may attempt to rally the West to exert its influence on Ukraine, persuading it to accept a precarious ceasefire. Reports from the reputable “Wall Street Journal” suggest that Li Hui, during recent meetings with European diplomats, ardently lobbied for a ceasefire proposal that would ultimately leave Ukraine’s occupied territories under Russia’s control. However, the envoy was met with a chilly reception and a coordinated response from European representatives, hinting at their caution towards such a scheme.
As these developments unfold, Mykhailo Podolak, advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, vehemently argues that any compromise in the face of Russia’s aggression would signify a catastrophic defeat for democracy, leaving Moscow with the upper hand.
The stage is set, and the players are positioning themselves for a high-stakes battle. Will Ukraine hold its ground amidst Russia’s manipulative manoeuvres? How will the West respond to the Kremlin’s calculated tactics? Only time will reveal the answers, as the world watches with bated breath.