CNN: Putin’s war objectives in Ukraine might have altered, intelligence sources suggest

Recent intelligence reviewed by US and Western officials suggests Putin may have shifted focus in the Ukraine conflict towards consolidating control over occupied territories and boosting Russia's struggling economy.

This marks a departure from previous assessments that saw Putin confident in his ability to eventually conquer all of Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports per CNN.

The change in perception has reportedly encouraged former US President Donald Trump and his team to believe that Putin could now be more open to peace talks.

Despite this, senior US officials remain sceptical, warning that Russia could use any potential ceasefire to regroup and later renew its military campaign. Western intelligence sources note that while Putin may be prepared to limit his goals temporarily, he still harbours long-term ambitions to reclaim areas he regards as central to Russian civilisation.

Sources say the Trump administration is leveraging economic pressure and the promise of post-war investment to encourage Moscow into negotiations, with Vice President JD Vance recently signalling that a peace deal could involve “territorial swaps” based near current front lines. Trump has also indicated the US may recognise Russia’s control over Crimea.

However, European allies have expressed alarm over the proposed framework, which they fear could legitimise Russia’s territorial gains. Kyiv, meanwhile, is demanding firm security guarantees before agreeing to any settlement, warning that without them, Russia could resume its aggression.

Though Trump remains optimistic, recent Russian missile strikes on Kyiv have raised doubts about Putin’s sincerity. Intelligence officials caution that Moscow may simply be stalling while continuing its military efforts on the ground.

By Aghakazim Guliyev