ABC News Daily The secret US plan to end Putin’s war
Nov 20, 2025
Matthew Sussex, a visiting fellow at the Australian National University’s Centre for European Studies, delves into a secret US-led plan that might end the Ukraine war—one that potentially asks Ukraine to make significant concessions. He discusses the alarming increase in Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities, and the implications of a Russian spy ship near the UK. Sussex also explores Ukraine's resistance to the plan’s clauses regarding language and sovereignty, and assesses the motivations behind Putin’s ongoing aggression, questioning whether he genuinely seeks peace.
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Russia Escalates Nationwide Strikes
- Russia has stepped up strikes on population centres and critical infrastructure across Ukraine.
- Matthew Sussex warns attacks now reach western cities to signal Russia can hit anywhere on Ukrainian territory.
Spy Ship Threat To Undersea Infrastructure
- The Russian spy ship Yantar gathers intelligence and strains NATO resources by loitering near UK waters.
- Sussex warns it may sabotage undersea infrastructure like cables as part of hybrid warfare.
Sabotage Of Aid Routes Raises Alarm
- Russia appears to be widening a campaign of sabotage beyond Ukraine, targeting rail lines used to deliver aid.
- Poland suspects foreign intelligence agencies commissioned explosive tampering on supply railways.