The Kremlin invented yet another reason to avoid negotiations and justify the war - ISW.

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a meeting with the Russian government regarding the collapse of two railway bridges in the Kursk and Bryansk regions that occurred on May 31. According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), the Kremlin is using this incident to reinforce narratives about the 'terrorist' nature of the Ukrainian government and to question its legitimacy as a partner in peace negotiations.

Putin stated that the derailing of trains confirms that the Ukrainian government is 'gradually turning into a terrorist organization' and is not 'legitimate', but seeks power more than peace.

Putin emphasized that Russia cannot negotiate with 'terrorists' and questioned the possibility of reaching an agreement with Ukraine regarding a ceasefire. He also added that the parties cannot engage in dialogue when one of them 'is betting on terror'.

Tense relations between Russia and Ukraine

Vladimir Putin discussed the collapse of the bridges in Russia and blamed the Ukrainian government for it, attempting to divert attention from his own responsibilities. This incident highlights the tense relations between the two countries and complicates the possibility of reaching a peace settlement to the conflict.