Putin doubles down on demands for Ukrainian territory ahead of US talks
President Vladimir Putin has reiterated that Russia will lay down arms only if Ukrainian forces withdraw from territories claimed by Moscow, including Crimea and parts of Donbas. Kyiv has rejected any such concession, calling Russia's demands a "non-starter".
Speaking from Kyrgyzstan, Putin claimed that Russia maintains the initiative on the battlefield, warning that Ukrainian troops must withdraw from Donbas, otherwise Moscow would "achieve this by force of arms". Analysts say Russian progress has been slow, with significant losses, and ISW estimates it could take nearly two years to seize the remainder of Donetsk.
Diplomatic Developments
This week saw intense discussions between Ukraine and the US over a peace plan drafted by American and Russian officials, later revised in Geneva with European representatives. Putin stated the plan could form the "basis" for a future agreement, though he emphasized further discussions were needed on specific points, including Crimea and Donbas.
US Delegation and Future Talks
A US delegation led by special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected in Moscow next week. Trump indicated that Jared Kushner may join the discussions. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said talks will translate Geneva’s points into actionable steps for peace and security guarantees.
Reactions and Controversies
Putin criticized the Ukrainian leadership, calling them illegitimate, and dismissed warnings of potential European attacks. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen accused Russia of maintaining a post-World War Two mindset and of seeing Europe as a "sphere of influence".
Ongoing Conflict
Ukraine remains under martial law since Russia’s 2022 invasion. Zelensky’s legitimacy as president has been upheld despite the conflict, but uncertainty continues as negotiations evolve and fighting persists.
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