**Russian Official Urges Putin to End Ukraine War**
A top aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a surprising call for peace, urging the leader to stop the war in Ukraine and begin talks. Dmitry Kozak, deputy head of Putin’s administration, reportedly presented a plan to end hostilities alongside proposals for internal reforms.
This development comes ahead of a scheduled meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump in Alaska on August 15. The White House is also weighing whether to invite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to join talks the same day.
Kozak, a longtime ally of Putin’s who has been privately opposed to the war, had previously warned the Russian president about the risks of fierce Ukrainian resistance before the full-scale invasion began in 2022. He also attempted to negotiate a truce after it started.
The timing of Kozak’s call for peace is significant, as it comes ahead of critical talks between Russia and Ukraine. The US has been pushing for a ceasefire proposal that involves Kyiv ceding eastern territories to Russia, but Ukrainian leaders have firmly rejected this idea, warning it would allow Moscow to regroup and attack again.
**Background on Kozak’s Influence**
Kozak was once a key figure in managing Ukrainian affairs, but he has lost much of his influence to Sergei Kirienko, who now oversees occupied territories. Despite this, Kozak has continued informal contacts with foreign representatives, seeking arguments that might sway Putin.
Western officials have told the New York Times that Kozak has been trying to persuade Putin to accept a ceasefire proposal without preconditions, such as Ukraine forgoing NATO membership and withdrawing troops from occupied territories. However, Putin has refused this offer, instead demanding concessions from Kyiv before agreeing to peace talks.
**The Way Forward**
Kozak’s call for peace is a rare moment of dissent within the Russian leadership. It remains to be seen whether Putin will heed Kozak’s advice or continue down the path of war.
One thing is certain: the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance, and the international community is watching with bated breath as talks between Russia and Ukraine unfold.
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