DGL46 -
Putin's level of personal support in Russia is not a measure of how effective sanctions are in reigning him in or encouraging to change his ways.

He has control of the media in Russia and most Russians get whatever message he wants them to have.

I support negotiating with Russia, never have I said Putin shouldn't be negotiated with.

Not talking to someone means you have zero influence with them.

But negotiating with them from a position of strength (more, heavier sanctions) when they are in a position of weakness (weak economy and lack of funds for military) is where you want to be.

I'm fine with "negotiate with his regime to convince them to back down on some of his aggressive maneuvers in return for easing of sanctions" and that has been the point behind sanctions all along,, but we're still waiting for him to "back down on some of his aggressive maneuvers" so more, tougher, longer sanctions are called for to get the desired response.

Sanctions are a negotiation method.