Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that Ukraine could be placed under a form of temporary administration to facilitate new elections and the signing of key agreements aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict, according to reports from Russian news agencies on Friday.
Speaking in the northern port city of Murmansk, Putin expressed his belief that U.S. President Donald Trump, who has fostered improved relations with Russia, genuinely seeks to end the prolonged conflict, which has persisted for over three years.
Putin stated that Russia is making consistent progress towards achieving its objectives in the conflict. His remarks regarding a potential temporary administration seemed to reflect a long-standing concern that the current Ukrainian authorities lack legitimacy as negotiating partners, as President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is expected to remain in power until the end of his mandate in May 2024.
“In principle, a temporary administration could be established in Ukraine under the auspices of the United Nations, the United States, European nations, and our partners,” Putin remarked during discussions with seamen at the port. “This would enable the conduction of democratic elections and the establishment of a capable government that commands the trust of the people, subsequently beginning dialogue regarding a peace agreement.”
He noted that Trump’s willingness to engage in direct discussions with Russia, in contrast to his predecessor Joe Biden, who largely avoided direct contact, indicates the new president’s desire for peace. “In my opinion, the newly elected president of the United States genuinely wishes to bring an end to the conflict for various reasons,” Putin commented.
Putin affirmed Russia’s commitment to seeking peaceful resolutions to all conflicts, including the one in Ukraine, but emphasised that such resolutions should not come at Russia’s expense. “Across the entire line of military engagement, our forces are maintaining the strategic initiative,” he stated, asserting that Russia is “persistently and confidently” progressing towards its aims.
Additionally, Putin indicated that Russia is open to cooperating with various countries, including North Korea, to help terminate the war in Ukraine. Western and Ukrainian sources claim that over 11,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to reinforce Russian forces in Moscow’s western Kursk region, although Russia has not verified these reports.
Source : Reuters
