President Vladimir V. Putin has made it clear that Russia is prepared to pursue its objectives through military confrontation, as Ukraine and European nations race to adjust a U.S.-proposed peace deal. The Kremlin’s leader, as seen in an image released by Russian state media last week, has shown a strategic detachment from the ongoing negotiations. This posture highlights the ongoing stalemate in the conflict, with Moscow maintaining its stance while the West seeks a resolution. The U.S. proposal aims to address key issues such’t as the status of Crimea and the security guarantees for Ukraine, but both sides remain divided on these matters. As the negotiations proceed, the international community watches closely for any signs of progress or a shift in Russia’s position. The image of Putin in the Kremlin underscores a broader narrative of Russia’s strategic patience and its willingness to engage in prolonged conflict if necessary.