Putin: US-Ukraine Peace Plan Could Be Future Basis, But Russia to Fight On If No Withdrawal

Putin Considers US-Ukraine Peace Draft a Potential Basis, But Issues Firm Warning

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently articulated that a draft peace proposal, previously discussed between the United States and Ukraine, possesses the potential to serve as a foundational document for future agreements aimed at resolving the protracted conflict in Ukraine. Nevertheless, he made it abundantly clear that should a resolution not materialize on his terms, Russia stands ready to continue its military endeavors.

Statements from Bishkek Summit

Speaking from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, during his attendance at the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) summit, Putin confirmed that the contours of the plan, which emerged from U.S.-Ukrainian deliberations in Geneva, had been passed to Russia. "In general, we agree that this can be the basis for future agreements," he remarked. He further indicated that the U.S. appeared to be taking Russia's position into account, though he noted that several aspects still necessitated further discussion and negotiation.

Conditions for Peace and European Security

Putin also touched upon the subject of European security, signaling Russia's preparedness to offer non-aggression pledges if such assurances were sought by European nations. However, he unequivocally restated Russia's stringent conditions for any cessation of hostilities: "Ukrainian troops must withdraw from the territories they hold, and then the fighting will cease. If they don't leave, then we shall achieve this by armed means. That's it." This declaration underscores Russia's demand for territorial concessions as a prerequisite for peace.

Legitimacy and International Recognition

The Russian President went on to assert his belief that the current Ukrainian leadership is illegitimate. According to Putin, this perceived lack of legitimacy complicates the legal process of signing any direct agreement with Ukraine. Consequently, he emphasized the critical need for any prospective peace deal to be formally recognized by the international community. Crucially, he stressed that this international recognition must extend to acknowledging Russia's recent territorial gains within Ukraine.

Dismissal of Bias Claims

Concluding his remarks, Putin flatly rejected as "nonsense" any allegations suggesting that U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff had displayed a bias towards Moscow during the ongoing peace discussions concerning Ukraine.