President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia maintains a strategic approach in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, convinced that he holds negotiation leverage partly due to President Trump's perceived sympathy and strategic interests. Despite Trump's calls for peace, Putin continues aggressive military actions, banking on securing more favorable terms before any settlement. Recent talks between Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff have not yielded breakthroughs, with Russia's military pressure intensifying in Ukrainian regions. While Trump and Vice President JD Vance's proposed concessions are criticized for favoring Russia, they fall short of meeting Putin's objectives, which include control over more Ukrainian territories and limiting Ukraine's military. Putin's strategy also involves undermining Ukraine's defenses and morale while keeping open the possibility of a negotiated settlement, should it offer substantial benefits like sanctions relief and economic partnerships with the US.

Putin is utilizing continuous military pressure on Ukraine as a leverage strategy, feeling emboldened by Trump's administration, which has indicated a willingness to make concessions that favor Russia, though they don't meet all of Putin's demands.

Despite the aggression, Putin remains engaged in diplomatic talks with the US, as shown by recent meetings with envoy Steve Witkoff, indicating a dual approach of military pressure and potential diplomatic resolutions.

There is significant criticism of the Trump administration for proposing a peace deal perceived as skewed towards Russia, including recognizing the annexation of Crimea and freezing the front line, which effectively legitimizes Russia's territorial gains.

Putin's military actions include targeting civilian areas under the justification that they harbor military activities, which has led to tragic impacts on civilians, increasing international scrutiny and condemnation.

Internal Russian discourse suggests that Putin could potentially agree to a ceasefire if strategic military objectives are met and if it results in substantial diplomatic and economic gains, such as relief from Western sanctions and renewed economic ties with the US.

The strategic calculus for Putin involves maintaining battlefield advantages to extract more concessions from Ukraine and its allies, while simultaneously keeping the door open for a future peace agreement that aligns with Russia's broader geopolitical ambitions.

The Kremlin's confidence is evident despite the ongoing violence, reflecting a belief that the current US administration's stance provides Russia with opportunities to negotiate from a position of strength while continuing its military campaign.