Russian President Vladimir Putin’s references to a possible end of the war in Ukraine could be a new diversion in his attempt to distract attention from Russia’s weakness, said German Defense Minister, Boris Pistorius, who arrived in Kiev on an unannounced visit on Monday, reports Reuters, according to Agerpres.
Putin stated on Saturday that, in his opinion, the war in Ukraine is nearing its end and that he would be willing to negotiate new security agreements in Europe, with former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder being a potential negotiation partner.
Putin could end the war himself if he wanted, Pistorius emphasized. “And there is always the fear – I hope I am wrong – that it’s just another trick, but it cannot be ruled out.”
“I believe that Putin is finally trying to distract attention from his own weakness through this approach. At present, he can hardly point to any territorial gains, and his army continues to lose parts of the conquered territories,” added the German Minister of Defense.
Ukraine and Russia agreed on Friday to a three-day ceasefire, as part of a US initiative in favor of peace under the leadership of President Donald Trump, but both accused each other of violating it.