Putin emphasized that Russia and Ukraine must negotiate directly, with ongoing contacts through intelligence channels. He condemned recent Ukrainian threats against civilian vessels and aircraft as state terrorism, warning that Western silence makes them accomplices, yet affirmed Russia's readiness to talk with anyone willing.
He thanked mediators like China and expressed
a desire for lasting peace in Ukraine and Europe, amid accusations that
negotiations remain frozen but open to new momentum. U.S. President Trump said
any meeting with Putin would wait until the war nears its end.