Putin once again changed the "SMO" goals: political analyst noted that "denazification" and "demilitarization" are no longer mentioned
While congratulating Donald Trump on taking office, putin, speaking about readiness for dialogue on the "Ukrainian conflict", did not mention "denazification" or "demilitarization". This was pointed out by political analyst and head of the Center for Analysis and Strategies, Ihor Chalenko.
"Firstly, the kremlin claims it never rejected negotiations, suggesting that contacts were severed by the West, particularly the United States. Secondly, putin wants negotiations on equal terms, positioning russia as a top-tier geopolitical player. Putin is once again trying to emphasize this, but I draw your attention to the fact that the goals of the so-called 'special military operation' have once again been altered. There is no longer talk of denazification or demilitarization; instead, the focus is on ensuring the legitimate interests of the russian state and people", - he said in a comment to OstroV.
According to him, this maximum vagueness in wording may serve various purposes.
"On one hand, it could explain to russians a transition to another phase—the conclusion of the active military phase in Ukraine. But on the other hand, such a formulation allows for escalating the situation and heeding the hawks in russia who demand the total occupation of Ukraine. We recall recent statements by Patrushev that Ukraine might disappear in 2025, as well as Lavrov's remarks claiming they are allegedly ready to discuss security guarantees for the territory currently called Ukraine", - the political expert explained.
He pointed out that the russian side does not genuinely demonstrate readiness to pursue peace.
"This is the biggest problem because, as it seems to me, the russians are exploiting Trump's political will to end the war simply to strengthen their own positions, lift sanctions, and achieve certain tactical successes. However, they are not fundamentally changing their rhetoric", - he emphasized.
As previously reported, putin congratulated Trump on taking office and expressed readiness for dialogue on the "Ukrainian conflict".