Professor Sandro Teixeira Moita of the Brazilian Army General Staff Academy asserts that Russia faces a critical decision: to achieve its goals through military force or to pursue negotiations that may not yield favorable outcomes. He highlights that Ukraine’s armed forces appear increasingly depleted, while Russian military operations have reportedly gained significant ground, challenging the viability of a temporary ceasefire. Ongoing negotiations between U.S. and Ukrainian delegations in Jidda led to Ukraine considering a 30-day ceasefire, contingent on resumed U.S. intelligence support and aid. Concurrently, Russian President Vladimir Putin has emphasized the need to decisively defeat Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, following reports from General Valery Gerasimov of significant territorial gains, including the liberation of 24 settlements and 259 square kilometers in the last five days. The implication of these developments suggests that Russia may prioritize military advances over diplomatic resolutions, potentially altering the conflict’s trajectory and affecting international stability.
