Russian President Vladimir Putin affirmed on Friday his openness to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. However, he emphasized that it’s the Ukrainian side that is not willing to engage in discussions.
In a statement quoted by Russian state news outlet TASS, Putin clarified, “I have always mentioned this: we have never declined negotiations. Therefore, please, if the other side is willing, let them express their intent. I am open to discussions, but we have yet to receive any communication from the other side.”
Kyiv has consistently asserted that achieving peace is contingent upon the complete withdrawal of Russian forces from all Ukrainian territories, including the Crimean Peninsula, which was illegally annexed by Moscow in 2014. However, Russia has steadfastly rejected viewing this as a viable option.
The conflict began when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, resulting in the illegal annexation of approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory. Despite Russia’s claims of not targeting civilians, Ukrainian civilian centers and critical infrastructure continue to be hit regularly by missiles and drones.