Putin’s Perspective on the Peace Proposal
Russian President Vladimir Putin has described the U.S.-backed peace initiative regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict as merely a preliminary framework for further discussions. He emphasized that Kyiv must acknowledge Moscow’s territorial claims as a prerequisite for any negotiations.
During a press conference in Kyrgyzstan, Putin stated that the plan proposed by former President Trump is not a finalized agreement but rather a collection of topics intended for dialogue. He remarked, “We need to sit down and discuss this seriously. Every word matters.”
The Russian leader reiterated his demand for Ukraine to withdraw from territories claimed by Russia, including Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhia, before any talks can commence. He warned that if Ukrainian forces do not retreat from these areas voluntarily, Russia would take action to reclaim them.
Ukraine and its European allies have labeled this demand as unacceptable and tantamount to capitulation. While there has been limited commentary from Russian officials regarding Trump’s peace plan, Ukraine has shown willingness to consider certain aspects of it.
The initial 28-point proposal faced criticism due to the significant concessions it required from Ukraine, including territorial losses and limitations on NATO membership. Recent discussions in Geneva involved Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreeing to some fundamental terms of the plan.
A new proposal was submitted to Russia following these talks. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to visit Moscow next week, while U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll will travel to Ukraine.
Witkoff recently faced backlash over leaked audio suggesting he advised a close aide of Putin on how best to present a peace plan to Trump. In an October phone call, he suggested that Putin should congratulate Trump on another diplomatic achievement before introducing the new Ukraine proposal.
Trump defended Witkoff’s approach during a recent flight aboard Air Force One, stating that negotiating with both sides is essential for progress. However, this stance drew criticism from some U.S. lawmakers who called for Witkoff’s dismissal due to perceived bias towards Russia.
