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Russia plans new offensive ahead of talks on ceasefire, says Ukraine

Vladimir Putin’s delay tactic for major push along front line to bolster negotiating position

Victoria, a resident, comforts her grandmother Emma at the site of an overnight Russian drone strike. Photo: Reuters

Victoria, a resident, comforts her grandmother Emma at the site of an overnight Russian drone strike. Photo: Reuters

Samya Kullab

Today at 03:30

Russian forces are preparing to launch a fresh military offensive in the coming weeks to maximise the pressure on Ukraine and strengthen the Kremlin’s negotiating position in ceasefire talks, Ukrainian government and military analysts said.

The move could give Russian president Vladimir Putin every reason to delay discussions about pausing the fighting in favour of seeking more land, the Ukrainian officials said, renewing their country’s repeated arguments that Russia has no intention of engaging in meaningful dialogue to end the war.

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