U.S. National Security Council spokesperson says Putin does not seem ready to negotiate, despite media reports saying otherwise

Russian President Vladimir Putin certainly does not “act like a guy who’s willing to negotiate” despite reports in the press suggesting otherwise, said U.S. National Security Council Spokesperson John Kirby during a briefing.

According to Kirby, who cited recent Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities as an example, Putin is doing “everything he can” to put Ukrainians in a disadvantaged position. He emphasized the importance of Congress approving additional funding for Ukraine.

In late December, The New York Times, citing Russian and American officials, reported that Putin has been sending “signals” through various diplomatic channels about his readiness to initiate cease-fire negotiations and freeze the conflict within its current borders.