Putin Accuses Ukraine of 'Opening Pandora's Box' With Attacks; Calls Peace Proposals 'Exotic'

Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of "opening Pandora's box" through its attacks on major Russian distributors Wildberries and Ozon. Putin asserted that Kyiv's objective is to damage Russia's economy, warning that such actions will elicit a response against Ukraine's most sensitive economic sectors.

In a televised interview, Putin stated his willingness to engage in dialogue regarding peace in Ukraine. However, he characterized the proposals currently reaching Moscow as "exotic" and unacceptable, without elaborating on their specifics. He described them as sometimes being "of an exotic nature and unacceptable."

Putin also commented on Ukraine's 40-day plan to pressure Moscow, questioning its effectiveness and results. He acknowledged that Russia has intensified its attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities in retaliation for enemy actions targeting Russian logistics and civilian infrastructure.

The Russian leader suggested that it is premature to speculate on future developments or potential bases for agreements, implying a strategic waiting game rather than immediate negotiation.