According to five sources from an intelligence agency, Russia does not aim to quickly conclude the war, but is using negotiations with the US to seek sanctions relief and establish business arrangements. A source from Reuters described recent negotiations in Geneva as a "theatrical spectacle," emphasizing that Moscow's goals remain unchanged and include the removal of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the transformation of Ukraine into a neutral 'buffer zone' between Russia and the West.

The sources indicate that Russia's primary goal is not peace but rather to achieve specific objectives, with one source noting that the Russian economy is not on the brink of collapse as previously assumed. This perspective highlights the strategic implications of prolonged conflict and Russia's confidence in utilizing negotiations as a tool for political gain, rather than as a genuine effort for peace.

Moreover, the issue of territorial claims is raised, suggesting that Russia may seek satisfaction of its claims if Ukraine were to cede part of the Donetsk region, which Russia has struggled to occupy. However, such moves would not lead to the Kremlin's primary objective of ousting Zelensky from power, indicating a complex interplay of military and diplomatic strategies in the ongoing conflict.