Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that the ongoing war in Ukraine could conclude through negotiations, provided “common sense prevails.” While expressing a preference for a diplomatic resolution, Putin also indicated he is prepared to use military force if necessary. These remarks were made during a press conference in Beijing following his visit to China.
Putin described a “certain light at the end of the tunnel,” suggesting he sees genuine efforts from the United States to negotiate an end to the conflict. He elaborated, “It seems to me that if common sense prevails, it will be possible to agree on an acceptable solution to end this conflict.” His comments reflect a cautious optimism regarding potential discussions, particularly under the current US administration led by President Donald Trump.
Despite this, Putin reiterated his long-standing demands that Ukraine must abandon its aspirations to join the NATO military alliance. He also insisted that Ukraine address issues related to discrimination against Russian speakers and ethnic Russians and grant Russia full control of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine.
The Russian leader proposed that Ukraine should revoke martial law, conduct elections, and hold a referendum on territorial matters to facilitate progress. He expressed willingness to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Moscow, yet he questioned the value of such a meeting without significant preparation. “As for a meeting with Zelenskiy, I have never ruled out the possibility. But is there any point? Let’s see,” he stated.
Zelenskiy, who has not faced re-election due to the ongoing martial law, was described by Putin as an illegitimate leader. Ukraine’s government strongly rejects this characterization, arguing that meaningful elections cannot occur in a time of war. In response to Putin’s proposal for a meeting in Moscow, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha declared it unacceptable, stating that at least seven countries, including Austria, the Vatican, Switzerland, and several Gulf states, are willing to host a meeting between the two leaders.
“These are serious proposals and President Zelenskiy is ready for such a meeting at any point in time,” Sybiha noted. He criticized Putin’s approach, indicating that the Russian leader is “messing around” with unacceptable proposals.
Zelenskiy has consistently pushed for a meeting with Putin to discuss potential peace terms, despite the significant gap between the two sides. He has urged the United States to impose additional sanctions on Russia should Putin fail to agree to negotiations. President Trump, who has sought to mediate a peace settlement, has expressed a desire for the two leaders to meet but has not yet imposed secondary sanctions on Russia.
Putin’s remarks highlight a complex and evolving situation, where diplomatic efforts remain fraught with challenges, and the potential for armed conflict looms large. As both sides navigate this tense landscape, the international community continues to watch closely, hoping for a resolution that will bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
