Putin and Trump could clash over Ukraine (Image: Getty)
President is planning new attacks on that could extend the war by another nine months, experts have claimed.
The move comes despite US President ‘s attempts to get the Kremlin chief
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a respected Washington DC-based think tank, said that Russian forces plan to surround Kupianks, Kharkiv oblas, as well as other operations.
ISW claimed that this is proof that Putin has no intentions to end the war yet.
The think tank believes ‘s attack on Avdiiva, eastern , in February 2024 will be the blueprint for future attacks on other towns and cities.
Russian soldiers pictured in Ukraine (Image: Getty)
However, the military experts believe that key cities such as Pokrovsk and Kupiansk could prove more difficult for the Russians.
ISW said: “The Russian military command has shown that it is willing to commit to operations that could take six to nine months to conclude.
“Russian commanders are likely operating under the assumption or direct knowledge that Russian President does not intend to end the war in in the near future.”
Emil Kastehelmi, from OSINT analysis firm Black Bird Group added: “The battle of Toretsk has been a very slow one. has made some progress in recent weeks, and has reached the borders of the town in many areas.
Last month, Putin said is “ready to negotiate” with .
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Kharkiv has been heavily bombarded by Russian forces (Image: Getty)
He told a Russian state TV journalist: “We believe the current president’s statements about his readiness to work together. We are always open to this and ready for negotiations.
“It would be better for us to meet, based on the realities of today, to talk calmly.”
Later in January, Mr Trump threatened with taxes, tariffs and sanctions if Putin if he did not agree to a freeze in the conflict.
Mr Trump posted on Truth Social: “All of that being said, I’m going to do , whose Economy is failing, and President Putin, a very big FAVOR. Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous War! IT’S ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE.
“Let’s get this war, which never would have started if I were President, over with! We can do it the easy way, or the hard way – and the easy way is always better. It’s time to “MAKE A DEAL.” NO MORE LIVES SHOULD BE LOST!!!”