Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared his readiness to start negotiations with Ukraine, but rejected the possibility of a dialogue with current Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Russian leader said this in an interview with propagandist Pavel Zarubin.
“You can negotiate with anyone, but Zelenskyy, because of his illegitimacy, is not able to sign anything,” Putin said. He noted that he was ready to “allocate people” who would be engaged in negotiations on the Russian side.
Putin also said that in order to start a dialogue, Ukraine should cancel Zelenskyy’s decree banning talks with Russia. He stressed the importance of reaching agreements that would guarantee long-term security for both Ukraine and Russia: “This should be a serious document, without any mistakes or inconsistencies.”
In addition, the Russian leader once again expressed confidence that Ukraine will not be able to continue its defence without the West’s help: “If money and ammunition stop, everything will be over in a month and a half. Ukraine does not have full sovereignty”.
These statements came amidst tensions in the region and growing fears of a reduction in military assistance to Ukraine from allies, especially after Donald Trump’s possible return to power in the United States.
