According to Bild, there are three signs that Putin is signaling the end of his presidency in 2025.

German officials have analyzed information that has emerged in the Russian information space since 2023. Based on these publications, they are considering several scenarios for 2025. One of these scenarios suggests that the war in Russia may end due to a deteriorating economic situation. The publication Bild reported on the arguments in favor of a peaceful scenario and the seriousness with which this is regarded.

The portal explained that they received information about an analytical report obtained by the German government. The report analyzes several potential developments for 2025, including one that contains an "explosive assessment." Specifically, it mentions that Russia is "sending appropriate signals" and could end the war by the end of 2025, according to Bild.

The report outlines several indicators suggesting that the Kremlin is preparing to conclude hostilities:

1. The economic situation is worsening, evidenced by rising interest rates and prices, as well as a 20% devaluation of the ruble. Furthermore, although the defense industry is operating in three shifts, the expected GDP growth for the new year is only 1% (compared to 3% previously);
2. In the Russian publication "Kommersant," an article was published back in 2023 discussing preparations for the 2026 elections. It even specified the level of support that the Kremlin plans to achieve—at least 55%;
3. Russia is developing messages to communicate to the public about the "achievement of objectives" related to the invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, programs are being devised to integrate millions of Russian soldiers into civilian life.

At the same time, the Bild article emphasizes that one should not place too much trust in the information that is publicly disseminated within the Russian information space. As evidence, journalists recalled the events of the winter of 2022, when the Kremlin assured until the last moment that it had no plans to attack Ukraine.

"We are specifically discussing a possible scenario. Signals from the Kremlin, as always, may mean something different, the opposite, or nothing at all. Nevertheless, Russian signals are being closely monitored and analyzed by the German side," the publication concluded.

Ending the War — Details

It is noteworthy that on January 2, an interview with President Volodymyr Zelensky was published online, in which, among other things, statements about ending the war were made. The politician stated that Ukrainians insist on achieving a just peace with clear security guarantees from Western partners. He emphasized that there will be no agreement to reduce the army, as in that case, Russia would destroy Ukraine.

Previously, the Kremlin also expressed views on ending the war. For instance, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that peace is possible only under the conditions that were previously outlined. Specifically, Ukraine must recognize that the occupied territories are now part of Russia, permanently renounce NATO membership, reduce its army, and abandon its national identity.

Additionally, in December, future special representative of the 47th President of the United States, Kit Kellogg, commented on scenarios for ending the war. According to the potential vision of the new administration, it closely resembles what Lavrov mentioned, but with specific nuances. In particular, Ukraine must agree to return occupied territories only through diplomatic means and renounce the Alliance for 20 years. Meanwhile, the U.S. will provide it with maximum weaponry, which should become the sole instrument of pressure on the Kremlin.

We remind you that the Financial Times published five policy scenarios that the newly elected President of the United States, Donald Trump, might pursue: some of them neglect the interests of both Ukraine and Taiwan.