Vladimir Putin is reportedly facing growing anger from Russia's elite, who want the war in Ukraine to end. People at the top of the country's society are also worried about the Russian economy, it is believed, as Western sanctions take their toll.

President-elect Donald Trump said he is planning a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying he wants to end the "bloody mess" of the Ukraine war.

Senior Russian security and military officials are pushing for an escalation of hostilities in Ukraine, opposing any prospects of negotiations. Source: Institute for the Study of War (ISW) Details: ISW analysts note that Russian security forces deem it crucial to escalate military operations in Ukraine,