Putin’s Maximalist Demands Threaten Ukraine Peace Deal

Vladimir Putin is facing accusations of deliberately making excessive demands that risk derailing peace negotiations in Ukraine. As U.S.-Russia talks resumed, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to a 30-day ceasefire proposal, now awaiting Moscow’s approval. However, Putin’s hardline stance, including refusing to return seized territories and rejecting peacekeeping forces, has complicated efforts for a lasting resolution. Western officials, cited by Bloomberg UK, claim Putin’s unrealistic demands are designed to be unacceptable to Ukraine, jeopardizing the peace process. The temporary truce aims to pave the way for a permanent agreement, but tensions remain high. Despite recent diplomatic progress, Putin’s maximalist approach continues to cast doubt on the prospects for peace, leaving the international community wary of further escalation in the region.