Putin's Mixed Messages on Ukraine: Threats of Offensives and Peace Talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin alternated threats of a new Russian offensive to grab more Ukrainian land with statements about the Kremlin’s readiness for peace talks. He blamed Ukraine for the destruction of the Kakhovka dam and said that ending the hostilities in Ukraine depends on the United States. Putin also mentioned that Russian troops “already were near Kyiv,” and he would not rule out a new wave of mobilization. Additionally, he said Moscow was considering ending its participation in the deal to allow exports of Ukrainian grain from Black Sea ports.