Putin Must Realize Russia Cannot Win War, Says Kellogg

In a recent interview with Japan's NHK, former special envoy to Ukraine and retired General Keith Kellogg emphasized that the ongoing conflict with Ukraine will only end when Putin acknowledges Russia's inability to secure any further territorial gains. Kellogg asserted that this realization is crucial for a potential ceasefire.

He pointed out that ongoing international sanctions are severely damaging Russia's military capabilities, leading to significant losses. Reports suggest that casualties on the battlefield may range between 1.2 million and 1.4 million people, including both fatalities and serious injuries.

According to Kellogg, both the Russian leadership and Putin himself are aware of these staggering losses, contributing to their hesitance to engage in peace talks. Kellogg expressed concerns over Putin's psyche, linking it to historical figures like Tsar Nicholas II, the last emperor of Russia who faced dire consequences after his abdication.

He suggested that Putin fears facing similar accountability for the war. The general argued for the feasibility of a ceasefire today, if both parties agree to freeze the conflict along the existing front lines.

However, he clarified that the responsibility for the ongoing hostilities lies primarily with Putin, who demands Ukrainian forces withdraw from the Donbas region, contrary to Ukraine's stance of maintaining control over its territories. The former envoy criticized the United States' diplomatic strategy, particularly its recent abstention from voting on a United Nations resolution aimed at establishing a long-term peace in Ukraine.

Kellogg's remarks reflect a growing frustration within the international community regarding Russia's sustained aggression and the implications for regional stability. As peace efforts face obstacles, Kellogg's insights provide a glimpse into the complexities of negotiating an end to the conflict, underscoring the potential for dialogue hinged on a realistic assessment of military realities.