Russia wants to end the war but “on its own terms.” Moscow is ready for a new round of negotiations with Ukraine. The delegations only need to agree on the time and place, said Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to UNIAN.
The last round of talks between Ukraine and Russia took place on 2 June in Istanbul, mediated by Turkiye. Russia presented a document with its own peace terms. Moscow demands from Ukraine to accept the occupation of four regions, recognize the annexation of Crimea, and agree to the demilitarization of the country. Kyiv insists on a 30-day unconditional ceasefire and security guarantees.
His statements came after the NATO summit in The Hague, where US President Donald Trump softened his rhetoric on Ukraine and indicated he would consider Ukraine’s proposal for more Patriot air defense systems.
Two days after the event, the Kremlin leader claimed Russia is prepared to return the bodies of another 3,000 fallen Ukrainian defenders.
“Only Russia is friend of Russia”: Amid Trump’s peace efforts Russian general says Moscow’s goal must be victory, not just good terms with “someone”
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Russia aims to distract the US and other partners by showing diplomatic gestures, like returning Ukrainian POWs back home, allowing it to postpone the introduction of new sanctions.
Putin did not miss the chance to criticize Western countries, accusing them of aggression. According to him, the West “encouraged separatism and terrorism under the principle of ‘everything is fine if it’s against Russia.’” He also claimed Western countries cannot give up Russian energy.
“The West keeps trying to bury Russia, but they’ll die themselves soon,” he claimed.
At the same time, Putin spoke favorably about US President Donald Trump, saying he respects the politician greatly and believes in the sincerity of his efforts to end the war.
“Russia and the US have good prospects for economic cooperation. American businesses are signaling their desire to return to the Russian market,” he added.
Previously, Trump revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin offered to help mediate the war between Israel and Iran, Fox News reported. According to the US president, Putin called him and made the offer. In response, Trump said “no, I don’t need help with Iran. I need help with you.”