U.S. Intel: Putin’s Willingness to Negotiate Masks His Plan to Capture All of Ukraine

Russian leader Vladimir Putin is not genuinely interested in peace negotiations with Ukraine but instead sees them as a tactical maneuver to further his military objectives, according to U.S. intelligence sources cited by NBC on February 18.

“We have zero intelligence that Putin is interested in a real peace deal right now,” said a congressional official.

Putin has sent representatives to Saudi Arabia for discussions with U.S. officials on a possible resolution to the war. However, intelligence assessments suggest he still believes he can sustain Russia’s war against Ukraine longer than Ukraine and Europe, potentially gaining greater control over Ukrainian territory.

“He thinks he’s winning,” noted a Western intelligence official, adding that military setbacks have not significantly changed his strategy.

According to NBC, U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his commitment to diplomatic efforts, stating that both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed openness to negotiations in recent conversations.

However, some U.S. and Western officials remain cautious, concerned that Putin may view the talks as a way to strengthen Russia’s international position without making major concessions.

Intelligence reports indicate that Putin has not signaled any plans to reduce military operations in Ukraine.

Officials have also noted that he appears encouraged by recent statements from the Trump administration, which suggest that Ukraine’s NATO membership is unlikely to be a central part of any potential agreement.

“His goals remain maximalist,” added a Western intelligence source.

Previously, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that negotiations between Russian and U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia are taking place without Ukraine’s involvement, emphasizing that Ukraine will never accept Russia’s ultimatums.