Putin Sees US Proposal as Potential Path to Ukraine Peace but Warns of Forceful Land Seizures If Kyiv Fails to Withdraw | CNN

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently commented on a U.S. plan aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, suggesting it might lay the groundwork for future agreements. However, he maintained his tough stance, making it clear that he would consider military action if Ukrainian forces do not retreat from the territories they occupy.

Putin spoke to reporters in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, indicating that a U.S. delegation, led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, would soon visit Moscow for discussions. While he expressed some openness to negotiations, he reiterated his demands: Ukraine must withdraw from several regions it currently controls.

This demand isn’t just about territory; it involves key areas. Russia occupies about 20% of Ukraine, including most of Luhansk and parts of Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. Recently, there have been some Russian advances, particularly around the city of Pokrovsk, but experts suggest that a complete military victory for Russia is not certain. According to the Institute for the Study of War, the rate of Russian advances contrasts sharply with Putin’s aggressive claims.

The regions Russia seeks are heavily fortified, critical to Ukrainian security. Ukraine and its allies firmly view any territorial concessions as unacceptable. This sentiment comes after a contentious 28-point peace plan illustrated some of Russia’s demands, including limitations on Ukraine’s military and a bar on NATO membership.

Putin indicated he expects Witkoff’s visit next week to further discuss this plan. While he claimed that it could serve as a foundation for future agreements, he noted, “It would be impolite of me to speak of final agreements now.”

As this conflict unfolds, public opinion remains divided on social media. Some users express skepticism about any meaningful resolution, while others underscore the need for peace. Given the stakes, the world watches closely to see if de-escalation is possible or if military tensions will continue to rise.

For more on the current situation, you can read further analysis from trusted sources like The New York Times or The Brookings Institution.

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