Zelenskyy: Russia to intensify attacks after U.S. cuts Patriot deliveries

Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized on Thursday that forthcoming discussions regarding the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine must prioritize security assurances for Russia, Ukraine, and Europe. Speaking to Russian television following a meeting with US special envoy Steve Witkoff, Putin affirmed Russia's readiness to reinitiate US-mediated talks with Ukraine next month.

He reiterated the Kremlin's position that Russia never sought to initiate the war but encountered opposition from Ukraine on critical issues concerning Moscow.

Putin stated that while various matters could be addressed in talks to achieve a positive outcome, Russia is committed to a resolution that ensures lasting security for Ukraine and Russia post-ceasefire. He underscored that the ultimate objective of these negotiations is to secure the welfare of both nations once peace agreements are finalized, rather than settling for a temporary ceasefire of limited duration. Witkoff also stressed that dialogue should encompass the broader framework of European security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who had also met Witkoff in Norway on Tuesday, expressed Ukraine's willingness to engage in talks expected to commence early next month. Ukraine supported any ceasefire proposals, an end to the war, a humanitarian cease-fire, and energy cease-fires. Zelenskiy reiterated Ukraine's stance against relinquishing any territory currently under its control, rejecting any suggestion of ceding eastern Ukraine's Donbas region, which Russia demands.

Putin, however, argued that these territories are historically Russian, noting that residents of the region voted to align with Russia in referendums held seven months after Moscow's invasion.