Former MI6 chief warns peace in Ukraine unlikely under Putin

Former MI6 chief John Sawyer has stated that a lasting peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine is unlikely as long as Vladimir Putin remains in power. Speaking to the Financial Times, Sawyer suggested that the chances of reaching a comprehensive peace deal by the end of 2027 are slim.

Sawyer noted that under current conditions, the most realistic outcome might be a reduction in conflict intensity to levels similar to those seen after 2014. He expressed skepticism regarding the ability of current American envoys to achieve significant results, citing Putin’s unchanged and “unacceptable” demands as a primary obstacle.

According to Sawyer, serious ceasefire negotiations might only become possible in 2027 if both Russia and Ukraine face increasing economic and military consequences and if Russian forces lose the ability to advance on the front lines. This assessment comes amid diplomatic efforts by US representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who recently visited Moscow with a proposal to end the war.