Putin said yesterday that he's willing to end his war in Ukraine (aka "special military operation" in authoritarian Russia, or else!) if Russia (meaning Putin) gets "respect" from western countries. Did Hitler get respect?
Putin maintains that it's NATO's fault for expanding east toward Russia, and THAT is why he invaded a peaceful country -- Ukraine, since Ukraine wants NATO security (and EU prosperity). In reality, NATO is a DEFENSIVE organization and Putin is jealous that Ukrainians ALSO want to break away from his AUTHORITARIANISM.
Putin can stop HIS war anytime. No more excuses.
He started it for BS reasons (Hitler-like expansion), and he should end it ASAP. If not, then NATO, including USA, should maximize their sanctions and assist Ukraine with long-range weapons to destroy Russia's military assets and oil/gas economy. What is Trump waiting for? Putin will not stop until he has to.
Russia's leader said during a TV marathon that claims that an attack on Europe was planned were "nonsense".
www.bbc.com