Kremlin insiders: Putin signals intent to keep occupied Ukrainian territories

Sources close to the Kremlin indicate that Russia plans to retain control over parts of occupied Ukrainian territory, intending to establish them as buffer zones once the conflict concludes. This strategic objective suggests Moscow's unwillingness to return these areas to Ukrainian sovereignty.

The shift in approach appears to stem from a belief within the Kremlin that previous informal understandings, reportedly reached during a meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump, have collapsed. This perceived failure of diplomatic channels may have influenced Russia's decision to pursue a more assertive territorial strategy.

This reported intention to hold onto occupied regions signals a potential hardening of Russia's stance regarding the future borders and political landscape of Ukraine. The designation of these territories as buffer zones implies a desire to create a security perimeter, potentially to mitigate future threats or influence from Ukraine and its allies.