Putin is stalling for time: WSJ reports on the Kremlin’s last chances in the conflict with Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin rejects peace proposals, betting on weakening the Ukrainian army before Russia’s economy collapses. This statement was made in a publication by The Wall Street Journal on September 7, 2025.

Ignoring Peace Initiatives

The Kremlin decisively rejects U.S. President Donald Trump’s ideas for resolving the conflict and sacrifices diplomatic efforts, hoping that Ukraine will exhaust its resources first. This is not just a calculation but an attempt to secure a place in history alongside great conquerors.

Washington proposed freezing hostilities and reaching a territorial compromise, but these proposals did not receive support from Moscow. The Russian leadership continues to insist on tough demands, which could lead to Ukraine becoming a dependent territory and changing the balance of power in Europe.

Economic Situation in Russia

The deadline set by the Americans for Putin to show readiness for negotiations has expired, while Europe is once again discussing the possibility of sending peacekeepers, although there is no real basis for this. Experts warn of a lack of a unified strategy among Western countries, which complicates pressure on the Kremlin.

The Russian economy, after slight growth in 2023–2024, is facing a decline in oil and gas revenues, as well as a budget deficit. Military spending supports industrial production but simultaneously creates a deficit in some sectors.

“Problems are accumulating quickly, but a collapse of Russia’s economy is not expected in the near future,” says Alexander Gabuev, head of the Berlin Carnegie Center. According to his forecasts, the country is capable of sustaining the conflict for another 18–24 months.

Factors That Could Shorten the Term

Tightening sanctions and falling oil prices could shorten this period. However, a complete blockade of Moscow’s oil revenues is unlikely, as key buyers remain India and China. New Delhi has already confirmed that it will continue its purchases despite the imposed American tariffs. The West is also hesitant to act against Beijing, fearing a new trade war.

Even with worsening finances, the Kremlin will continue to increase state spending on the military, despite cuts in social programs. Also, if certifications and bonuses for recruits run out, a new wave of mobilization is possible.

Internal Problems and War

Maria Snegovaya from the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington notes Putin’s attempts to ease the burden of war on society, fearing discontent caused by inflation and shortages. However, Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries and pipelines increasingly lead to fuel shortages in some Russian regions.

“It is becoming harder to maintain the appearance of normal life. Russians become dissatisfied when the war intrudes into their daily lives,” the expert emphasizes.

War Prospects

According to estimates, even with a lack of resources, Russia will be able to continue resistance for about three more years if the pressure from sanctions does not intensify. Moscow’s actions in eastern Ukraine are explained by a strategy of attrition. The Kremlin focuses not only on capturing new territories but also aims to undermine the morale of Ukrainian defenders.

Currently, the Ukrainian army faces heavy losses, which are difficult to replenish, especially considering Russia’s larger population. The future of resistance depends on the supply of Western weapons and the development of its own military-industrial complex.

Criticism of the Army and the Need for Reforms

One of the main problems is the lack of infantry. Fighting in the Donetsk region is intensifying, and rare positions are supported only by artillery and drones.

“We need to adopt the experience of Israel, where the entire population fights,” says Sergey Ignatukha, commander of the UAV presidential brigade.

There are also highlighted shortcomings in management inherited from Soviet times. Captain Alexander Shirshin of the 47th mechanized brigade notes: “Perhaps we have not yet reached the critical point where the need for reforms becomes obvious.”

Refuting Predictions of Defeat

Despite the difficult situation, Ukraine has repeatedly shown that it can refute negative forecasts. “Our main resource is the will to live, which helps us find a way out of any difficult situations,” says Shirshin.