Former MI6 officer Christopher Steele, who oversaw the Russia desk in London from 2006 to 2009, says the conflict would end only when a settlement is reached that excludes Vladimir Putin and sees him removed from power. Mr Steele told Sky News’ Beth Rigby that Putin has no way back, which will complicate diplomatic discussions and negotiations aimed at securing a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine.
European and NATO-aligned nations have been hurrying to provide Ukraine with arms.
Finland decided to intervene by sending a big supply of up to 2,500 assault weapons, as well as 150,000 bullets and gun ammo.
Spain committed to deliver up to 1,370 anti-tank grenade launchers to Ukraine, while Norway also sent more anti-tank weaponry.
Mr Steele stated that the peace treaty with Putin will be “one of the major difficulties that the West will confront in the future.”
“I don’t see how we can trust Putin in any kind of peace settlement that comes today, and I don’t see how we can engage with him in terms of normal business moving ahead,” he continued.
“After all, the President of the United States has labelled him a war criminal.”
Ms Rigby urged the former agent to explain how he felt the conflict would end if reasonable talks were thwarted by Putin falling too deep down the rabbit hole.
“I think it does end in some sort of deal,” Mr Steele said, “but I think that deal is a long way off, and I think it probably doesn’t include Vladimir Putin.”
“I believe he will be forced out of senior leadership, or maybe murdered by his own people.”
Former US National Security Council Director Fiona Hill earlier indicated that Putin is now afraid for his life and is “paranoid” about an assassination attempt.
“Any vague discussion about someone pulling him out, regime change,” she warned. He’s quite worried about it.”
The United Kingdom has also agreed to donate 4,000 anti-tank missiles to the Ukrainian combat effort.
As peace talks continue in Turkey this week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may ask for more in the future, but there is still no definite agreement amongst the neighbouring nations to stop the war.
