The Russian leader sees direct talks with Trump as essential to achieving his ultimate aims in Ukraine.
Author: Paul Sonne and Anton Troianovski
Putin Replaces Defense Minister in Rare Cabinet Shake-up
Mr. Putin shifted Sergei Shoigu to run the security council, and nominated an economist to run the defense ministry.
In Tucker Carlson Interview, Putin Suggests a Peace Deal (on His Terms)
The Russian leader clearly believes he can now negotiate from strength, but the message in the Tucker Carlson interview was muddled, critics say.
Putin Faces Military Setbacks and Disunity
The problems that have hindered Russia’s 15-month war are still festering: stretched resources and disunity in the ranks. Still, Mr. Putin’s resolve augurs a willingness to prosecute a long war.