Putin refuses to end the war and doubles down — ISW
The Russian leadership ignores peace initiatives, declaring readiness to fight until 'complete victory.' ISW analysts link the tough rhetoric to preparations for the State Duma elections in September 2026. The rejection of Turkey's proposal for a moratorium on strikes on shipping confirms the course toward escalation.
The Russian leadership continues to ignore international and Ukrainian initiatives for a peaceful settlement or a freeze on hostilities. Experts at the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) note that the systematic categorical statements of key Russian officials indicate a lack of desire for compromise and a focus on fulfilling the Kremlin's maximalist demands. Recent speeches by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev confirm the unwillingness to fix the current front line and to continue the war until 'complete victory.' The rejection of Turkey's diplomatic proposal to introduce a bilateral moratorium on strikes on civilian shipping in the Black Sea also demonstrates an uncompromising position. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova called a potential pause a 'half-measure that gives the enemy a respite.' According to ISW analysts, the artificial escalation and refusal to make contact serve a domestic political purpose: the Kremlin seeks to mobilize society around a pro-war platform ahead of the State Duma elections scheduled for September 2026. The authorities hope to smooth over social tension and ensure the passage of the right candidates against the backdrop of ultimatum-like external rhetoric.