Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that discussions with Ukraine could happen, but not with President Volodymyr Zelensky, whom he labelled as “illegitimate.”
US President Donald Trump has urged both parties to resolve the nearly three-year-long conflict, saying last week that Zelensky was interested in negotiating a “deal” to end the hostilities.
“If Zelensky wishes to be involved in the negotiations, I will designate individuals to participate,” Putin remarked, referring to the Ukrainian leader as “illegitimate” since his presidential term lapsed during martial law.
“If there is a willingness to negotiate and reach a compromise, anyone can lead the talks. Naturally, we will pursue what benefits us, aligning with our interests,” he added.
Putin also stressed that the fighting would cease in two months or less if the West withdrew its support for Kyiv.
“They will not last a month if the funding, and broadly speaking, the ammunition dwindles. Everything would come to an end within a month and a half or two,” Putin stated.
The conflict has not shown any signs of reducing tension, despite Trump’s commitment to implementing a rapid ceasefire once he takes office.
Russian officials said on Monday that no one from Trump’s team had contacted them to arrange a meeting with Putin, but both sides seemed open to the idea.
Kyiv has raised concerns about being left out of any peace negotiations, accusing Putin of attempting to “manipulate” Trump.
