President Vladimir Putin stated that a US-backed plan to end the war in Ukraine could “form the basis for future agreements,” but he reiterated that Ukraine must give up territory for peace or face further military action. Putin emphasized that unless Kyiv withdraws, Russia will continue operations to secure additional regions.
Speaking in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Thursday, Putin confirmed that a US delegation led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is expected in Moscow next week to discuss potential negotiations. He said the Kremlin is ready for “serious discussion,” while signaling that Ukraine must give up territory for peace as part of any viable settlement.
Despite these planned talks, prospects for a breakthrough appear limited. Putin repeated his maximalist demands, asserting that the conflict will only conclude “once Ukrainian troops withdraw from the territories they occupy,” reinforcing that Ukraine must give up territory for peace if a deal is to be reached.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that his delegation will meet US officials later this week to review points outlined in Geneva. In his nightly address, Zelensky highlighted that next week will feature “important negotiations not only for our delegation, but also for me personally,” underscoring that Ukraine must give up territory for peace remains a contentious issue.
Russia has made gains along the eastern front, particularly near the city of Pokrovsk. However, analysts from the Institute for the Study of War note that a Russian military victory is not guaranteed, suggesting that Ukraine must give up territory for peace is not yet a foregone conclusion.
The territories Russia demands include the so-called “fortress belt,” a series of heavily defended towns and cities critical to Ukraine’s national security. Kyiv and European allies have repeatedly stated that Ukraine must give up territory for peace is a red line they cannot cross without severe consequences.
Putin’s remarks on Thursday reinforced that Moscow will not yield, even as US officials, including former President Trump, highlighted “tremendous progress” on peace initiatives. He made clear that Ukraine must give up territory for peace remains central to Russia’s negotiating position.
The original 28-point US-drafted peace plan, which reflected many Russian demands, included limiting Ukraine’s military capacity and preventing NATO membership. Ukrainian and European officials pushed back, revising the plan to reduce concessions. Nonetheless, Putin stressed that Ukraine must give up territory for peace to satisfy Moscow’s conditions.
Putin said he anticipates Witkoff’s arrival in Moscow next week to discuss the new draft plan, the details of which are still unclear. He noted that while the plan could “form the basis for future agreements,” Ukraine must give up territory for peace remains the core demand for any negotiation to advance.
