Michael McFaul, co-chair of the international working group on sanctions against the Russian Federation, ex-US Ambassador to Moscow, responded to the leaders of states calling for an end to the war in Ukraine at the negotiating table as soon as possible.

The diplomat reminded the Kremlin loyalists who called for "

“I agree with those who argue that the West should be more persistent in seeking an end to the war in Ukraine. But at the center of these efforts should be (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, not (Ukrainian President Vladimir) Zelensky. Putin started this war. Putin invaded Ukraine. The war won't end without him,"

I agree with those that argue that the West must push harder to end the war in Ukraine. The focus of that effort, however, must be Putin, not Zelensky. Putin started this war. Putin invaded Ukraine. Without him on board, it will not end.

— Michael McFaul (@McFaul) July 25, 2022.

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Recall, on May 17, the Ukrainian side confirmed the suspension of negotiations with Russia on a peaceful settlement.

Ukraine is ready to resume them only after the military defeat of the Russian Federation.

Russia, through its lobbyists in the West and loyalists in the East, is trying to force Ukraine to return to negotiations on Moscow’s terms, threatening that if there is delay, the terms will become “tougher”.

A truce is urgently needed for the battered Russian army to regroup and gain a foothold in the occupied territories. And after a respite, use them as a springboard for a new offensive.