Russian President Vladimir Putin. Photo: Alexander Demyanchuk/TASS
Russian President Vladimir Putin has effectively recognised Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a legitimate head of state and a possible participant in future negotiations. This is stated in a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Analysts note that this is the first time Putin has recognised the validity of Ukrainian legislation that prohibits holding elections during martial law. According to experts, this may be the Kremlin’s preparation for possible diplomatic contacts in the future.
“US President Donald Trump has said that Putin and Zelenskyy should negotiate, and Putin is likely changing his rhetoric to explain to Russian audiences his willingness to engage in such talks,” the ISW report said.
At the same time, Putin continues to push for a change of government in Ukraine, using new language. He stated that Russia is “not against the existence of Ukraine”, but wants it to be “friendly” to Russia and not used as a “springboard for attack”.
Putin also proposed that the US conclude an agreement on rare earth minerals, including reserves located in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. ISW believes that this is an attempt by the Kremlin to ease Western pressure without making real concessions in the war.
As previously reported, Donald Trump said that the war could be ended in a few weeks if the parties were “reasonable”. In response, Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine would negotiate only in accordance with the Constitution and the interests of the Ukrainian people.
