President Vladimir Putin has threatened to eliminate Ukrainian troops while violating a US-backed cease-fire by ordering strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities. Despite previous promises to halt such attacks, Putin urged for intensified military actions. His remarks coincide with ongoing diplomatic negotiations aiming for a peace agreement, though skepticism remains regarding Russia’s intentions.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a threatening proclamation regarding Ukrainian troops, vowing to “finish off” their forces following a violation of the US-supported partial cease-fire. His commands resulted in strikes on a Ukrainian energy facility in Kherson, a move that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated breached the tentative agreement aimed at halting military actions in the region.
Despite previously indicating a halt to strikes on energy targets, Putin urged his troops to intensify their efforts in Ukraine. During the International Arctic Forum, he stated, “I was saying not so long ago: ‘We will finish them off.’ There are reasons to believe that we will finish them off.” He emphasized a methodical approach toward achieving the goals of the special operation.
In the backdrop of these developments, the United States is striving to re-engage with Moscow while facilitating discussions with both countries in pursuit of a lasting peace accord. Following meetings in Saudi Arabia, the White House announced that both Ukraine and Russia had consented to measures aimed at prohibiting strikes on energy facilities.
Nevertheless, ongoing strikes have drawn accusations from Ukrainian and European leaders, who allege that Putin is merely delaying meaningful ceasefire negotiations without any intention of ceasing hostilities. Former President Trump, whose envoy previously aided in securing a truce, criticized Russia for their reluctance to engage constructively.
At the Murmansk summit, Putin further called for the ousting of President Zelensky, proposing the establishment of a transitional administration in Ukraine. He expressed skepticism regarding Zelensky’s legitimacy as a negotiating counterpart due to his suspension of elections amid the conflict, saying that discussions could revolve around creating a credible government that reflects the will of the populace involved in future peace negotiations.
In summary, President Vladimir Putin’s recent threats toward Ukrainian forces and his violation of the cease-fire highlight the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. His calls to intensify military operations and proposals for a transitional government underscore an unwillingness to genuinely engage in peace talks. This impasse continues to challenge international efforts aimed at establishing a lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: nypost.com
