Vladimir Putin has expressed interest in discussing President Trump’s Ukraine peace proposal as tensions escalate, warning Ukraine to withdraw or face military action.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated a willingness to consider President Donald Trump’s peace proposal as a potential starting point for negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Speaking to reporters at the conclusion of a three-day visit to Kyrgyzstan, Putin emphasized the importance of serious dialogue regarding the proposal, stating, “We need to sit down and discuss this seriously.” He noted that “every word matters” in the context of the discussions.
Putin characterized Trump’s plan as “a set of issues put forward for discussion” rather than a formal draft agreement. His comments come as U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is set to visit Moscow, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
In a stark warning, Putin stated, “If Ukrainian troops withdraw from the territories they occupy, hostilities will cease. If they don’t withdraw, we will achieve this by force.” This declaration raises concerns about the potential for increased military action should Ukraine fail to comply with Russia’s demands.
Andy Barr, a Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, commented on the situation, asserting that it highlights the necessity for strong American leadership. “Russia invaded Ukraine because Joe Biden was the weakest president in American history,” Barr claimed. He further stated, “President Trump’s peace-through-strength leadership kept Putin fully contained. This war never would have happened under his watch. Trump is the peace president… the only leader who can end this war and bring stability back to Europe.”
However, critics of Putin argue that he may be attempting to manipulate the U.S. and the European Union. Garry Kasparov, the former world chess champion and a vocal critic of the Russian leader, expressed skepticism about the prospects for peace. He told the Polish international news network TVP, “Peace under Putin is unachievable for one simple reason: Putin is war — and Russia is gearing up for even more.” Kasparov has also criticized NATO, Trump, and the EU for their perceived failures in adequately supporting Ukraine and expelling Russian forces from its territory.
As discussions about a potential peace agreement continue, Kremlin officials have remained largely silent regarding Trump’s recent proposal. Historically, Putin has been reluctant to accept previous peace plans put forth by Trump.
Putin has insisted that Ukraine must completely withdraw from the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhia regions before any peace negotiations can commence. This demand notably includes areas within these regions that are not currently under Russian occupation. Additionally, Putin seeks to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO and hosting any Western military forces, aiming to reestablish Russian influence over the country.
Recent assessments from the Institute for the Study of War have cast doubt on Russian claims of an unstoppable invasion, noting that Russian forces are still struggling to capture key cities in the eastern Donetsk region. The think tank stated, “Data on Russian forces’ rate of advance indicates that a Russian military victory in Ukraine is not inevitable, and a rapid Russian seizure of the rest of Donetsk Oblast is not imminent.” They further observed that recent Russian advances have been largely opportunistic and dependent on favorable seasonal weather conditions.
As diplomatic efforts continue, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to visit Moscow next week. Meanwhile, U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, who has played a prominent role in recent peace initiatives, may also be heading to Kyiv to engage in discussions.
The initial U.S. peace proposal faced criticism for being overly favorable to Russian demands. However, an amended version emerged from talks in Geneva between American and Ukrainian officials, reflecting a more balanced approach. European leaders, concerned about their own security in light of Russian aggression, are also seeking a more active role in the peace process.
As the situation evolves, the international community remains watchful, hoping for a resolution that can bring an end to the conflict and restore stability to the region.
Source: Original article