During a meeting with heads of Russian news agencies, Vladimir Putin outlined his position regarding the conditions for ending the conflict in Ukraine. The Kremlin leader stated that for Russia, full control over the Donbas region and the conclusion of a peace agreement are not mutually exclusive factors.
Anchorage Conditions and Compromises
In response to journalists' questions about priorities—territorial control or a deal—Putin replied that one does not exclude the other. He emphasized Moscow's readiness for a peaceful settlement, however, he set a strict framework for negotiations. According to the Russian leader, agreements are possible only based on the proposals discussed in Anchorage during his meeting with US President Donald Trump.
"We are ready to make compromises that were discussed in Anchorage. Ukraine must also be ready to make compromises," Putin noted. At the same time, he added that upon signing a peace document, he would say "thank God, it's all over".
Who Can Sign the Peace
An important condition for the Kremlin is the legitimacy of the Ukrainian representative authorized to sign agreements. In this context, Putin once again raised the issue of the necessity of holding elections in Ukraine. At the same time, he allowed that documents could be signed on behalf of Kyiv by different figures, including the current President Volodymyr Zelenskyy or the Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, Ruslan Stefanchuk.
Assessment of the Frontline Situation and the Role of the EU
The head of the Russian state expressed the opinion that the situation on the battlefield is unfavorable for Ukraine, mentioning forced mobilization and desertion. In his view, the European Union could contribute to the settlement of the conflict, but not through weapons supplies, but by persuading Ukraine to make compromises.
Kyiv's Reaction and the Status of Negotiations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly stated that the transfer of Donbas to Russia is impossible. At the same time, he expressed readiness to meet with Putin to resolve issues at the leader level. However, the Russian leader himself refuses such meetings until his demands are met.
Since 2025, several rounds of trilateral negotiations involving Ukraine, Russia, and the US have taken place. At the moment, the dialogue is on hold due to Moscow's position, which continues to insist on ultimatum conditions. According to experts, the Kremlin's demands do not correspond to the real situation on the front.