Putin: Negotiating with Ukraine Now Would Not Be Legitimate

- Russian President Vladimir Putin comments on the ban of negotiations with Russia by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating that initiating talks now would not be legitimate.

Putin's Statements on Ukraine Crisis

Russian President Vladimir Putin has mentioned that negotiating with Ukraine at this moment would not be legitimate due to a ban imposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Putin recalled the start of negotiations with Ukraine right after the commencement of a 'special military operation'. Initially, Russia communicated to the Ukrainian government that the people in Donetsk and Luhansk regions did not wish to remain part of Ukraine and that if they left, everything would end there. Putin emphasized that if Ukraine abandoned these regions, there would be no conflicts. However, Kiev opted for war. Putin also mentioned that during negotiations held in Istanbul in 2022, a draft agreement was reached between Russia and Ukraine. Despite some contentious elements in the document, Putin had agreed to its implementation. He conveyed their acceptance of signing this document to Ukraine on the evening of April 15th or the morning of April 16th. When the Russian army approached near Kiev, some European leaders spoke with him, stating that Ukraine could not sign a peace agreement while having confirmed weapons near its capital. In the interest of preventing bloodshed and avoiding war, Russia agreed to withdraw its troops. Putin expressed concerns over potential negotiations with Ukraine, pointing out that the regime's leader in Ukraine had issued a decree prohibiting negotiations. He stated that since the leader is not legitimate, revoking this decree is not possible. Putin highlighted that while negotiations with anyone in Ukraine are possible, Zelensky cannot sign any document. He emphasized that they are open to resolving legal issues if there is a desire for negotiations, although such a willingness is not observed. Putin also mentioned that without the support of Western countries, the war in Ukraine would come to an end if financial and ammunition assistance ceases. He stressed that the outcome of potential negotiations should secure the safety of both Ukraine and Russia.