Russian President Vladimir Putin has disclosed to end the war with Ukraine, stating that peace talks could be held—but without the involvement of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whom he dismissed as illegitimate.
Speaking on Tuesday, Putin suggested negotiations could take place with other Ukrainian representatives, emphasizing that Russia would seek terms favorable to its interests. He justified excluding Zelensky by arguing that his presidential term expired during martial law.
Reacting to Putin’s statement, Zelensky accused him of stalling peace efforts and using manipulation to prolong the nearly three-year conflict.
“Today, Putin once again confirmed that he is afraid of negotiations, afraid of strong leaders, and does everything possible to prolong the war,” Zelensky wrote on X.
The Ukrainian government also warned against being sidelined in potential peace talks, alleging that Putin aims to manipulate U.S. President Donald Trump. Since assuming office on January 20, Trump has pressured both sides to end the war, threatening tougher sanctions on Russia while claiming Zelensky is ready to negotiate.
Meanwhile, Putin asserted that the conflict could end within two months if Western nations cut military aid to Kyiv. Despite Trump’s campaign promise to enforce a swift ceasefire, the war continues to escalate.
On Wednesday, Russia reported that it had downed more than 100 Ukrainian drones in an overnight attack, while Ukraine’s military said Moscow launched a similar drone strike of its own.
Additionally, Russia’s army announced the capture of a large village in Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region, marking another territorial gain for Moscow’s advancing forces.
