Analysts explained why the Kremlin sends signals about the alleged desire for talks

Analysts at the American Institute for the Study of War are convinced that the signals sent by the Kremlin that Moscow wants a ceasefire are false and have nothing to do with the real situation. In fact, "Putin is not seriously interested in ending the war, and seeks a complete Russian victory, so with these statements, the Russian dictator pursues his own goals."

Experts believe that Putin thus wants to weaken Western support for Ukraine.

The timing of Putin's stated interest in a ceasefire is more consistent with Russia's continued efforts to delay and prevent further Western military assistance to Ukraine than with a serious interest in ending the war other than a complete Russian victory, experts say.

ISW points out that this is not the first time Moscow has tried to deceive Western politicians by using lies as weapons.

The Kremlin wants to divert the West's attention to hypothetical negotiations instead of providing Ukraine with enough weapons before the spring-summer counter-offensive," they note.

Earlier, The New York Times, citing former and current Russian and US officials, reported that Putin expresses interest in a cease-fire.