Putin cites unspecified genetic research to claim Russians and Ukrainians are ‘one people’
In an interview with Pavel Zarubin, a correspondent for the Russian state broadcaster VGTRK, Vladimir Putin spoke for the first time about his talks with Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and outlined Russia’s position.
Vladimir Putin, in an interview with Pavel Zarubin of the Russian state broadcaster VGTRK, discussed recent talks with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. He stated that Russia is prepared to resume three-way talks aimed at ensuring security for Ukraine and Russia after a peace agreement is reached. Putin emphasized that the talks would focus on the final form of peace agreements rather than temporary ceasefires.
When asked about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's proposal to freeze the conflict along the line of contact, retaining 75% of Ukraine's territory, Putin dismissed it as "not their territory — it is the territory of historical Russia."
Putin further claimed that Ukraine is the side seeking war, not Russia, and questioned why Ukraine expects to bear the costs and receive weapons. He reiterated Russia's willingness to negotiate and find solutions to the current difficult situation. Regarding genetic studies, Putin mentioned the latest findings that "Russians and Ukrainians are one people." However, the specific source of these studies remains unspecified.
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