CIA director did not threaten Russia with repercussions for continuing the war against Ukraine

During talks with FSB Director Alexander Bortniv, the CIA director offered a pessimistic assessment of the progress of military operations for the Russian army. Ratcliffe called on the Kremlin to begin genuine negotiations to end the war before Russia's military and economic situation worsens. However, the CIA director made no threats regarding the possible consequences if Putin ignores this assessment and decides to continue the war against Ukraine, The New York Times reports.

American intelligence analysts have long doubted whether Putin's advisers are providing honest reports on the scale of losses and the real state of affairs. The US hopes that the Russian leader, as a former intelligence officer, will perceive information from the CIA director as more relevant and credible than the usual diplomatic signals.

Ratcliffe's channel of communication with Bortnikov operates in parallel with the contacts that US presidential envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have established with other Putin advisers.

Despite the hopes of some in Trump's inner circle for a quick Russian victory, the heavy losses suffered by the Russian army and Ukraine's determination to continue fighting have changed Washington's assessment of the situation.

Before meeting with Bortnikov in Moscow, Ratcliffe spoke with his Ukrainian counterparts, assuring them that he would study the Russians' positions and not make concessions on behalf of the Ukrainians.

Photo: Channel 24.