Russian strikes on the energy sector at the peak of frost showed the absence of a real “energy truce” — political scientist Ihor Chalenko
The kremlin does not view an “energy truce” as a real instrument of de-escalation. Political scientist and head of the Center for Analysis and Strategies Ihor Chalenko said this in a comment to OstroV.
“What we, in fact, expected — that russia would attack at the very peak of the frost — is exactly what happened. Intelligence data was fully confirmed. This can be called a cold genocide”, - he emphasized.
The political scientist noted that russia is systematically continuing attacks on critical infrastructure facilities that provide basic needs for millions of Ukrainian citizens.
At the same time, he drew attention to the fact that the current strikes did not become an instrument of direct pressure on the Ukrainian delegation in the negotiation process.
“The only thing is that such an attack did not become an element of pressure specifically on the Ukrainian delegation. Because if the negotiations had taken place on the first, this would have been a serious element of pressure”, - the expert explained.
According to Chalenko, the enemy actions once again demonstrate the kremlin’s unwillingness to make compromises within the framework of a peaceful settlement.
“Russia has once again demonstrated that it is not inclined to achieve compromise within the framework of a peace agreement”, - he noted.
Separately, the political scientist commented on the public activity of Donald Trump, who, in his assessment, is trying to demonstrate a peacemaking role despite russia’s real actions.
“Trump, in addition to words of gratitude and appreciation from putin, is trying to send opposite signals as well”, - Chalenko said, citing as an example statements after a conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about India possibly abandoning russian oil.
At the same time, the expert emphasized that a rapid end to the war does not depend on statements by the American leader.
“Trump needs to demonstrate further peacemaking activity. Which is exactly what he is doing. From the point of view of a quick end to the war, we understand that right now this does not depend on Trump. It depends directly on putin and on the coordinated pressure that American and European partners could provide”, - Chalenko concluded.
As reported earlier, on the night of February 3 the russians carried out a massive attack on Ukraine with drones and ballistic missiles: three people were injured in the capital.