Gemini-generated by author, image of Putin recoiling from a Ukrainian drone

The UK Mirror reports on a dramatic softening of tone by Putin against Ukraine.  Excerpt:

The unexpected change in tone from Putin also comes amid speculation the is confronting near-mutiny within his own security apparatus, with unconfirmed rumours of a coup plot and growing paranoia surrounding his personal safety.

“I think the matter is coming to an end,” he said, in reference to the war he started more than four years ago.

He framed the prospect of ending the conflict as a consequence of the West’s inability to inflict a “crushing defeat” on Russia, making no mention of his own military embarrassment in failing to seize Ukraine, which has recently struck his vital infrastructure with considerable force….

Putin once again trotted out his well-worn stance that he would meet Zelensky in Moscow — but this time suggested they could also convene in a “third country” to seal a peace agreement.

He said: “I’m not proposing this meeting, but if someone does, please let whoever wants to meet come, let them come to Moscow, and we’ll meet.

“We could meet in a third country, but only after final agreements have been reached on a peace treaty, which should have a long-term historical perspective.”

Slava Ukraine!