Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Moscow remains open to the possibility of resuming peace negotiations with Kiev, though he noted that recent actions by Ukraine have created significant hurdles. Speaking to reporters on Friday following the plenary session of the Forum of United Cultures in St. Petersburg, Putin remarked that all proposals for a peaceful resolution are currently "on the table." However, he emphasized that Russia would "give the matter serious thought" and base future decisions on its own national interests.
Putin specifically accused Ukraine of conducting attacks against Russian territory, including the targeting of polling stations. He further claimed that these Ukrainian offensives have resulted in casualties and caused damage to civilian and energy infrastructure. According to the Russian leader, the strikes also impacted more than 100 vessels within the Black Sea, encompassing both Russian and foreign-flagged ships. Putin stated that Russia has since repaired the damage and asserted that Moscow’s retaliatory measures were sufficiently severe that Kiev is now seeking a pause in strikes, particularly those aimed at energy infrastructure.
Addressing broader geopolitical concerns, the Russian president rejected claims that Moscow is preparing for a military conflict with Europe. "We are not preparing for any military action with Europe," he said. "We have no such plans. And, most importantly, there are no grounds for them." He accused "aggressive circles" in Europe of utilizing Ukraine as a tool to oppose Russia, suggesting that European governments are attempting to justify their ongoing support for Kiev by framing Russia as a threat.
Regarding the rights of Russian-speaking populations in the Baltic states, Putin stated that Moscow is aware of the situation and intends to address these concerns strictly through humanitarian and international legal channels. "We will continue to fight for the rights of our compatriots, but within the framework of international law," he added.
On the international stage, Putin expressed support for ongoing dialogue between the United States and China, noting that agreements between the world's two largest economies would carry significant global consequences. He described Russia’s current economic ties with the US as "almost zero," while highlighting that trade with China has reached $240 billion. Regarding the upcoming APEC summit in China, Putin said he has received an invitation but noted that his attendance remains unfinalized, as it will depend on the domestic situation within Russia.
