Putin says talks must focus on security for Russia, Ukraine and Europe

Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized during a recent interview that upcoming discussions on resolving the Ukrainian conflict should prioritize security assurances for both Russia and Ukraine, as well as a comprehensive European security framework. Putin confirmed Russia's readiness to resume US-mediated talks with Ukraine the following month, reiterating the Kremlin's stance that Russia never sought to initiate the war but faced opposition from Ukraine on critical issues.

Putin stressed that any resolution to the conflict should guarantee the security of Ukraine and Russia post-peace agreements, rather than rely on a temporary ceasefire. The US envoy Steve Witkoff also underscored the necessity of discussing European security architecture during the talks. Putin concurred with this perspective, while awaiting developments to unfold in the coming days.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who met Witkoff in Norway earlier, affirmed Ukraine's willingness to engage in talks expected to commence early next month. Ukraine expressed support for various ceasefire proposals, an end to the war, an energy ceasefire, and humanitarian initiatives. However, Ukraine firmly rejects any territorial concessions, maintaining that any discussion on eastern Ukraine should acknowledge its historical Russian roots and the referendums held seven months after Russia's invasion.