RUSSIA – The Russian president said it is essential to “declare Ukraine a neutral country, outside any military alliances, and without nuclear weapons,” adding that such guarantees are vital for lasting regional stability.
He stressed that Russia insists on Kyiv recognizing the results of referendums held in four Ukrainian regions, warning: “Ignoring them would mean the possibility of renewed armed conflict.”
Putin claimed that Russia and Ukraine were close to an agreement during the 2022 Istanbul talks, and expressed hope that Ukraine’s current leadership would prioritize national interests “rather than the agendas of third parties.”
He accused “external actors” of exploiting Ukraine for geopolitical goals, saying: “Ukraine deserves a better fate than to be a tool in the hands of those working against Russia.”