Cathy Young: Putin's 'Phantom Peace' Tactics Mask Continued Aggression in Ukraine

Washington, D.C. – Veteran journalist Cathy Young, a staff writer at The Bulwark, recently addressed the persistent question surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s intentions in Ukraine, questioning whether current actions signal a genuine shift in policy. In a social media post, Young stated, "Is this a Putin U-turn on #Ukraine? More of the same? Cautiously good news? I try to disentangle it all." Her analysis, published in The Bulwark, suggests that any perceived move towards peace is largely a strategic maneuver.

Young’s article, "Putin’s Phantom Peace," published in March 2025, critically examines proposals for a ceasefire, particularly those involving former U.S. President Donald Trump's "peacemaking quest." She asserts that Putin’s conditional responses to such proposals are designed to tie Ukraine's hands while allowing Russia to continue its military objectives. According to Young, independent Russian and Ukrainian commentators largely concur that Putin has no intention of ending the conflict without Ukraine's full capitulation.

The journalist highlights a pattern of strategic performance by the Kremlin, citing instances such as unsubstantiated claims of Ukrainian troops being encircled in the Kursk region. Young describes these narratives as a "performance" aimed at manipulating political discourse and extracting concessions. She emphasizes that Putin's underlying motivations remain consistent: the eradication of Ukrainian identity and the re-establishment of a Russian empire.

Despite Russia's public posturing, Young notes that the situation on the front lines is not as favorable for Moscow as it claims. While the U.S. aid situation has faced complexities, European nations have demonstrated a genuine and increasing determination to support Ukraine. This continued international backing, coupled with Ukraine's resilience, suggests that the conflict is heading towards prolonged attrition rather than a swift resolution on Russia's terms.

Young's comprehensive analysis serves to dispel optimistic interpretations of Putin's actions, framing them instead as a continuation of aggressive tactics under the guise of diplomacy. Her work underscores the importance of scrutinizing Russian statements and actions to understand the true trajectory of the war.