Kyiv Awaits Russian Offensive, Media Reports

Ukrainian military personnel and government analysts are anticipating a Russian military offensive aimed at increasing pressure on Kyiv and strengthening Moscow's positions ahead of further negotiations, reports the Associated Press.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also discussed preparations for a Russian offensive on various fronts during a speech at a summit held in Paris on March 27, linking it to attempts to "prolong negotiations." Two diplomats from G7 countries in Kyiv have concurred with this assessment, according to the agency.

Russian President Vladimir Putin had stated in February that Russian troops were advancing along the entire front line. "This week, while interacting with the crew members of the 'Arkhangelsk' submarine, Putin declared that 'strategic initiative is entirely in the hands of the Russian armed forces across the entire front line. Our troops, our guys are advancing and freeing up territory one after another every day,'" he said, expressing confidence that Russian forces would "reach" the Ukrainian armed forces.

He also mentioned that one of the options for negotiations with Kyiv could involve establishing a temporary governance with the US and Europe for conducting elections in Ukraine under UN auspices. "To conduct democratic elections, bring a functioning and trusted government to power, and then start negotiations on a peace treaty with them, to sign legitimate documents recognized worldwide and to be reliable and stable," Putin stated.

The White House responded, asserting that the governance in Ukraine is determined by its Constitution and its people. On March 24, the US conducted consultations with Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Saudi Arabia, characterized by Washington as "indirect negotiations" between Kyiv and Moscow. The White House announced agreements on ensuring safe navigation, excluding the use of force, and prohibiting the use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea.

Russia and Ukraine have discussed various conditions for the deal. Moscow has expressed readiness to implement the Black Sea grain initiative, contingent on the lifting of several sanctions, while Kyiv has asserted that a temporary ceasefire is not a restoration of the agreement.