Putin Willing to Negotiate Ceasefire Based on 'Anchorage Talks' but Demands Ukrainian Concessions

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared his readiness to end the war in Ukraine through diplomatic channels, provided Ukraine meets his demands. Speaking on the sidelines of the annual Russian Economic Forum, Putin stated that Russia is prepared to reach an agreement based on discussions he claims to have had with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Putin reiterated that for peace to be achieved, Ukraine must relinquish control over the remaining parts of the Donbas region not currently occupied by Russia. He asserted that Russian forces are advancing daily, having already secured Luhansk and over 85% of Donetsk. "We are, of course, ready and willing to reach an agreement with Ukraine through peaceful means," Putin said, adding that "Ukraine must also agree to these compromises."

The Russian president also commented on Russia's advanced weaponry, noting that its hypersonic 'Kinzhal' missile has not yet been deployed in actual combat. He explained that the missile, capable of carrying nuclear warheads and traveling over 5,000 kilometers, has only undergone test launches to assess its performance for potential future use, including against urban targets.

Western experts have expressed skepticism regarding Putin's claims about the missile's invulnerability. Russia first launched the Kinzhal missile in Ukraine in 2024.

“

We are, of course, ready and willing to reach an agreement with Ukraine through peaceful means. Specifically, on the basis of the compromises we discussed during our meeting with President Trump in Anchorage. Russia agrees to those compromises that we discussed in Anchorage. Ukraine must also agree to these compromises. Then the conflict will naturally end soon.