The article outlines how Russia is sending seemingly contradictory signals regarding its intentions in Ukraine. On one hand, President Vladimir Putin has dispatched Kirill Dmitriev, a close ally and special envoy, to Washington for high-level diplomatic talks—the most senior Russian visit since the invasion of Ukraine began. Professor Radchenko interprets these moves as part of a calculated long game by Putin. He argues Putin believes that time is on his side and that by dragging out talks, he can eventually negotiate from a position of strength.