Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Friday that he would initiate an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and commence negotiations if certain conditions are met by Kyiv. These conditions include Ukraine renouncing its plan to join NATO and withdrawing troops from the four occupied Ukrainian regions. Putin's remarks were made during a speech at the Russian Foreign Ministry in Moscow and were reported by The Associated Press.
Here are the key points of Putin's proposal and statements:
1. **Ceasefire Offer:** Putin stated that if Ukraine fulfills the conditions of renouncing NATO membership plans and withdrawing troops from the occupied regions, Russia would immediately order a ceasefire.
2. **Negotiations and Conflict Resolution:** Putin emphasized that his proposal aims at achieving a final resolution of the conflict rather than merely freezing it. He expressed readiness to start negotiations promptly.
3. **International Agreements:** Putin indicated that the conditions he outlined, including Ukraine's non-nuclear status, limitations on its military capabilities, and protection of Russian-speaking populations in Ukraine, should be enshrined in fundamental international agreements.
4. **Sanctions:** As part of the conditions, Putin called for the lifting of all Western sanctions against Russia.
5. **Context and Timing:** Putin's comments come amidst ongoing international efforts to seek peace in Ukraine. Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) were meeting in Italy, and a summit in Switzerland involving various global leaders was being prepared, although Russia was not participating.
Putin's proposal reflects Russia's longstanding concerns about NATO's eastward expansion and security issues related to Ukraine, including the status of Russian-speaking populations. The response from Ukraine and international stakeholders to these conditions will likely shape future diplomatic efforts and developments in the conflict.
