Putin Seeks Peace, Warns Ukraine He Will Use Force
Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia would prefer to end the war in Ukraine through talks but warned that if diplomacy fails, he will end it “by force.” His remarks came during his visit to Beijing, where he also announced progress on a new gas pipeline agreement with China.
Putin Signals Talks Possible
Putin stated that a peaceful solution is possible “if common sense prevails.” He noted what he described as constructive efforts from Washington to help find a settlement. He also said he was open to meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, though only if the talks took place in Moscow and produced concrete outcomes.
Russia’s Conditions Remain Firm
Despite offering negotiations, Putin repeated demands that Ukraine must not join NATO and must end what he called discrimination against Russian-speaking citizens. These conditions continue to block progress toward meaningful talks.
Kyiv Rejects Moscow Venue
Ukraine’s leadership dismissed the idea of holding peace talks in Moscow, calling the proposal unacceptable. Ukrainian officials stressed that genuine negotiations would require international guarantees and further sanctions pressure on Russia if it refuses to compromise.
