Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on Tuesday that Russia is willing to engage in discussions with Ukraine, the United States, and Europe regarding Ukraine’s future if they express the desire.
However, he emphasized that Moscow would staunchly defend its national interests.
Despite Putin sending troops into Ukraine in 2022, he has consistently mentioned his readiness for peace talks.
Western officials, however, believe he might be awaiting the outcome of the U.S. presidential election in November before making a sincere effort.
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“In Ukraine, those who are aggressive towards Russia, and in Europe and the United States—do they want to negotiate? Let them.
But we will do it based on our national interests,” Putin conveyed during a meeting with defense leadership in Moscow.
He asserted that Russia would not relinquish what it considers its own, clarifying that there is no intention to engage in conflict with Europe.
Currently, Russia controls approximately 17.5% of the territory internationally recognized as part of Ukraine since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
The annexation of Crimea in 2014 and Russia’s claim over four additional regions of Ukraine have heightened tensions. Kyiv remains adamant about removing all Russian soldiers from its territory.
Speaking at a defense ministry meeting attended by top military officials, including Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and General Valery Gerasimov, Putin noted that Russian troops now have the initiative on the battlefield.
He affirmed the continuation of the special military operation’s goals but emphasized the need for improved military communication, reconnaissance, targeting, and satellite capability.
Putin highlighted Russia’s rapid response in the defense industry compared to the West and announced plans for further upgrades to nuclear forces while maintaining high combat readiness.
Shoigu shared statistics indicating a significant increase in tank production, unmanned aerial vehicles, and artillery shells since February 2022.
The defense minister stated that Russia had enlisted 490,000 contract and voluntary soldiers in 2023, with plans to boost the contracted force to 745,000 men next year.
Shoigu also revealed extensive defensive measures in Ukraine, including 7,000 sq km of minefields, 1.5 million anti-tank barriers, and 2,000 km of anti-tank ditches.
Putin concluded by asserting that Ukrainian NATO membership would be unacceptable for Russia in the next decade or two.
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Putin Open To Talks On Ukraine’s Future Amid Defiant Stance, Putin Open To Talks On Ukraine’s Future Amid Defiant Stance
