Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed peace talks with Ukraine on Tuesday but ruled out any negotiations involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whom he deemed “illegitimate.”
This development comes as the Russia-Ukraine war enters its third year with no signs of resolution.
Putin’s Position: Zelensky Not Eligible for Talks
Putin argued that Zelensky’s presidential term had expired under martial law, rendering him illegitimate. He stated that Ukraine could appoint another representative for negotiations.
“If there is a desire to negotiate and reach a compromise, let anyone lead the talks. Naturally, we will strive for what aligns with our interests,” Putin stated.
Zelensky’s Strong Reaction
President Zelensky condemned Putin’s stance, accusing him of evading negotiations.
On social media platform X, Zelensky wrote, “Putin has once again proven that he fears negotiations, fears strong leadership, and is using cynical tricks to prolong the war.”
US Pressure & Trump’s Intervention
US President Donald Trump is pushing for negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Since taking office on January 20, Trump has threatened tougher sanctions on Russia while suggesting that Zelensky might be open to a “deal.”
However, Zelensky’s administration has warned that excluding Ukraine from talks would serve Putin’s interests and jeopardize the country’s sovereignty.
Putin: War Could End in Months If Western Aid Stops
Putin warned that Ukraine’s resistance was largely dependent on foreign military aid and that the war could end within months if Western nations halted their support.
“They will not exist for a month if the money and bullets run out,” Putin said.
Russian Troops Advance in Ukraine
The Russian Ministry of Defence announced on Tuesday that Russian forces had captured the village of Dvorichna in Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region. The village, which had a pre-war population of over 3,000, was described as “liberated” by Russian troops.
With continued fighting and deepened tensions, the prospects of immediate peace remain uncertain.
