1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

It is evident from Russia's recent actions, including launching the largest military draft in years, that Moscow is not negotiating in good faith towards a ceasefire in Ukraine. Rather than sincerely pursuing diplomatic efforts, President Putin seems intent on escalating the conflict by bolstering Russian military forces, even as peace talks supported by the U.S. continue. This draft of 160,000 men into the army raises grave doubts about Russia's commitment to resolving the crisis through diplomacy. To truly incentivize Russia to engage meaningfully in ceasefire negotiations, more severe economic sanctions targeting Russian industries and financial interests must be implemented. Additionally, increasing military aid and supplying advanced defensive weaponry to Ukraine's forces is crucial to strengthen their position on the battlefield. Only by facing substantive costs through sanctions and Ukraine's enhanced combat capabilities will Russia be compelled to come to the negotiating table ready to make meaningful concessions towards ending hostilities. Given Russia's actions betraying its stated commitment to peace, harsher punitive measures combined with empowering Ukraine's self-defense are necessary steps to force Putin to seriously pursue a ceasefire agreement. Stronger economic and military pressure is required to achieve the shared goal of restoring peace and stability in the region.