international_relations

War in Ukraine: Peace Negotiations Hit a Wall of Russian Intransigence

December 18, 2025 Le Monde
War in Ukraine: Peace Negotiations Hit a Wall of Russian Intransigence

Peace negotiations in Ukraine are blocked by Russian intransigence, according to Vladimir Putin.

SUMMARY

Peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia are currently paralyzed by Moscow's displayed intransigence, making any progress toward resolving the conflict difficult.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • Vladimir Putin expresses his grievances against Europeans during a speech in Moscow.
  • Peace negotiations are blocked by Russian demands deemed unacceptable.
  • The international community calls for the resumption of dialogue to avoid escalation.

CORE SUBJECT

Stalemate in Ukraine Peace Negotiations

The tone is icy, the message, familiar. From Moscow on Wednesday, December 17, Vladimir Putin reiterated, before an audience of military personnel, his old grievances against Europeans, this "supposedly civilized" people, he said, whom he likens to "little pigs" thirsty for power and influence. In this tense context, peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia are hitting a wall of Russian intransigence, making any progress difficult, if not impossible. The discussions, which were supposed to open a door toward ending the conflict, are now marked by Russian demands deemed unacceptable by Kyiv and its Western allies. This situation fuels fears of a prolonged conflict and military escalation, while the international community calls for restraint and the resumption of dialogue. Despite diplomatic efforts, Moscow's firm stance seems to lock any prospects of a short-term compromise.

KEYWORDS

Ukraine Russia peace negotiations Vladimir Putin conflict

MENTIONED ENTITIES 3

Vladimir Putin

👤 Person_Male

President of the Russian Federation

Moscow

📍 Location_City

Capital of Russia

Ukraine

📍 Location_Country

Country in conflict with Russia