Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested that Ukraine might engage in peace talks only after exhausting its resources, using any pause in hostilities to rearm with Western support. Speaking at an economic forum in Vladivostok, Putin stated that Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian forces had faltered, resulting in heavy losses for the Ukrainian army. He added that for talks to occur, Ukraine must lift its self-imposed ban on peace negotiations and clarify its objectives. Russia currently controls 18% of Ukrainian territory, with Ukraine striving to regain some areas but facing formidable Russian defenses. The West’s support for Ukraine drew criticism from Putin, who claimed it wouldn’t alter the war’s ultimate outcome.
