Putin: US-Ukraine Peace Plan 'Basis for Future Agreement,' But Russia Will Fight On

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Thursday that the recently refined peace framework discussed by the United States and Ukraine could serve as a basis for future agreements to end the conflict, but he stressed that Russia would continue fighting if peace is not achieved.

Putin acknowledged receiving a copy of the "updated and refined peace framework" resulting from talks between the U.S. and Ukraine in Geneva, which divided an initial 28-point U.S. peace plan into four components.

He stated, "In general, we agree that this could be the basis for future agreements," and noted that the U.S. side appears to be considering Russia's position.

The Choice: War or Peace: Putin issued a clear warning that Russia is prepared to fight on, including taking more of Ukraine, if peace talks fail.

Conditions for Ceasefire: Putin reiterated that for fighting to cease, Ukrainian troops must withdraw from the territories they currently hold; otherwise, Russia will achieve its goals "by armed means."

Illegitimacy of Kyiv Leadership: Putin claimed it is legally impossible to sign a deal with the current Ukrainian leadership, which he considers illegitimate. He stressed that any agreement must be recognized by the international community, including Russia's territorial gains.

He specified that the annexed Crimean peninsula and the eastern Donbas region must be topics for discussion with the U.S. Russia now controls over 19% (115,600 sq km) of Ukraine and has been advancing at the fastest pace since 2022.

Putin said Russia is willing to give Europe a formal pledge not to attack it, dismissing the idea of a Russian attack on Europe as "complete nonsense."

Putin confirmed that U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to visit Moscow early next week.