Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia is "ready and willing" to reach a peace agreement with Ukraine based on a proposal by US President Donald Trump, provided that Kyiv is prepared to make certain compromises. Speaking in an interview with heads of leading global news agencies, Putin asserted that Russian forces are dominating the battlefield and that Moscow is strengthening its air defenses to counter Ukrainian drone strikes.
Putin's Stance on Peace Negotiations
Putin emphasized that Ukraine must agree to compromises similar to those discussed during his summit meeting with President Trump in Anchorage, Alaska, in August 2025. "Without doubt, we are ready and willing to reach an agreement with Ukraine by peaceful means — and based on what we have discussed at the meeting with President Trump in Anchorage," Putin said. He added that Russia agrees to the compromises discussed in Anchorage and that if Ukraine also agrees, "the conflict will be resolved naturally and quickly." However, he did not elaborate on the specific terms of the proposed compromises.
Military Advances and Territorial Claims
Putin claimed that Russian forces have made significant territorial gains, bringing approximately 2,440 square kilometers under control recently. He stated that Russian troops are advancing daily and have taken full control of the Luhansk People's Republic, over 85 percent of the Donetsk People's Republic, and 80 percent of the Zaporozhye Region. "The offensive is ongoing on a daily basis," Putin said, noting that there is no place on the battlefield where Russian forces are not advancing.
Rejection of EU Mediation
Putin dismissed the possibility of European Union countries acting as mediators in peace talks, questioning how Russia can trust those who have advocated for a strategic defeat of Russia. He suggested that the EU could instead help resolve the conflict by persuading Ukraine to compromise rather than supplying weapons. "As for the EU acting as a mediator in negotiations with Ukraine, there are obvious difficulties. But we are not rejecting contacts. If they want to talk, they know how to reach us," he said.
Zelenskyy's Legitimacy Questioned
Putin also questioned the legitimacy of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, noting that his presidential mandate expired in May 2024. Although elections remain suspended under martial law, Putin called for a legal analysis of whether Zelenskyy is a legitimate representative of Ukraine. This comes after Zelenskyy sent an open letter to Putin proposing a face-to-face meeting and a full ceasefire to end the war peacefully.
Hypersonic Missile and Drone Threats
Putin revealed that Russia has not yet used its Oreshnik hypersonic missile against Ukraine, describing a recent strike as a test-firing to observe results. He warned that Russia could resort to full use of the weapon on targets, including urban areas. He also accused the West of providing Ukraine with updated drones capable of breaching Russian territory, prompting Moscow to strengthen its air defenses.
Stalled Ceasefire Negotiations
Ceasefire negotiations have stalled in recent months after previous peace talks in Geneva, Abu Dhabi, and Istanbul failed to resolve the conflict that began with Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Putin reiterated that the patriotism and will of the Russian people will ensure they achieve their goals in Ukraine.
