International relations expert: Russia favors military action in Ukraine, delaying political settlement

Russia is prioritizing a military resolution in Ukraine, making a political settlement unlikely. Recent Russian statements indicate a preference for battlefield initiative over diplomacy, with advances reported in several Ukrainian regions. Russia has also warned against Western military presence. This stance, coupled with President Putin's remarks on an assassination attempt, suggests Russia rejects political compromise. A coalition of around 30 nations supporting Ukraine, excluding the US, is seen as insufficient to alter the war's course.