**Putin Dismisses Frustration Over Peace Talks as “Excessive Expectations”**
Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded to the growing frustration over stalled peace talks in Ukraine, saying that the problem lies with “excessive expectations” held by all parties involved. This statement comes amidst a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump for Russia to end its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
According to Trump’s timeline, Moscow’s “deadline” to stop the war will come on August 8th, or within 10 days from July 29th when he first made the threat. Trump initially issued a 50-day deadline to Putin back on July 14th, warning that severe tariffs of up to 100% would be imposed on Russia and its close economic partners if Moscow failed to agree to a peace deal.
Putin’s comments suggest that he views the negotiation process with Ukraine positively, despite only sending low-level representatives to peace talks in Istanbul. He claims that Kyiv has responded favorably to Moscow’s proposal for three separate working groups to facilitate online talks without cameras or public pressure. However, these talks have yet to begin.
Russia’s conditions for ending the war in Ukraine remain unchanged, with Putin demanding the full withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the illegally-claimed Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts, along with guarantees that Ukraine would not join NATO and would remain a neutral, non-nuclear state.
In response to Putin’s comments, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on August 1st that Ukraine is ready to meet “at the level of leaders at any time,” provided Moscow is genuinely seeking to end the war with dignity. Zelensky also voiced support for Trump’s efforts to achieve a lasting peace and urged a shift from technical-level talks to direct negotiations.
**What Does This Mean for Ukraine?**
The statement by Putin may be seen as an attempt to downplay the frustration over stalled peace talks, but it also highlights the challenges in reaching a lasting agreement. The fact that Russia has consistently rejected holding leader-level meetings with Zelensky further complicates the situation.
Ukraine’s readiness to engage in direct negotiations at any time suggests a willingness to compromise and move forward towards peace. However, without a clear commitment from Moscow, it remains uncertain whether this can lead to a lasting resolution.
**What’s Next?**
The deadline set by Trump for Russia to end its invasion of Ukraine has put significant pressure on Putin’s administration. The reaction from the U.S. State Department suggests that patience has run out, and further ultimatums may be issued if progress is not made.
Russia has pushed back against the ultimatum, with Dmitry Medvedev accusing Trump of driving the U.S. and Russia closer to direct conflict. The situation remains volatile, and it’s unclear whether any progress will be made towards a lasting peace in Ukraine.
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