Putin unveils his peace formula for Ukraine and mentions compromise
Photo: Russian President Vladimir Putin (Getty Images)
Russian leader Vladimir Putin believes that Russia can both take control of Donbas and reach a peace agreement with Ukraine.
During a meeting with leaders of news agencies, the Kremlin leader was asked what he wanted: to control the entire Donbas or to strike a deal.
"One does not exclude the other — controlling the entire Donbas region and reaching an agreement. Why do you think this is a contradiction?" Putin replied.
Separately, he claimed that he is "definitely ready" and wants to reach an agreement with Ukraine through peaceful means. However, this would only be "on the basis" discussed in Anchorage during his meeting with US President Donald Trump.
"We are ready to make the compromises we discussed in Anchorage. Ukraine must also be ready to make compromises," Putin said.
He again claimed that the situation on the battlefield is unfavorable for Ukraine, referring to forced mobilization and desertions.
Putin also suggested that the European Union could help resolve the war against Ukraine.
In his view, the bloc should not supply weapons to Ukrainian forces, but instead persuade Ukraine to accept compromises.
What Russia wants
Russian officials have repeatedly demanded that Ukraine hand over the entire Donbas to Russian control. At the same time, the Kremlin refuses to accept a ceasefire along the current front line.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine won't "gift" Donbas to Russia. He has expressed readiness to meet Putin to resolve all issues at the leadership level. The Kremlin leader, however, refuses such a meeting unless his demands are met.
Since 2025, several rounds of trilateral talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States have taken place. However, the dialogue is currently paused due to Moscow’s position, which continues to insist on ultimatums.
Notably, Russia’s demands do not correspond to the current situation on the battlefield. For more details, see the RBC-Ukraine report.
