Russian President emphasizes the need for a peace deal that protects national security, amidst ongoing military conflict.
Moscow - On March 6, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that any peace agreement regarding Ukraine must ensure the long-term security of Russia and indicated that he would not consider retreating from the territory currently held by Russian forces.
In remarks made during a meeting with relatives of soldiers who died in the Ukraine conflict, Putin discussed the necessity for a peace solution that would be favorable to Russia.
He emphasized that these terms would not involve ceding control over territories captured during the ongoing conflict, which currently encompasses approximately 113,000 square kilometers, or around one-fifth of Ukraine's total area.
During the meeting, emotional responses were noted among the attendees, some of whom were visibly moved.
Putin responded to inquiries about whether Russia would withdraw its troops by affirming that no such retreat was planned.
Putin's comments came against the backdrop of shifts in international dialogue regarding the Ukraine conflict, particularly following recent developments involving U.S. President
Donald Trump.
Reports indicate that Trump has initiated bilateral discussions with Moscow, diverging from the previous U.S. stance on military support for Ukraine.
This change has raised expectations for potential peace negotiations, but also sparked concerns among European allies, who have reiterated their commitment to supporting Ukraine.
Debate intensified after French President Emmanuel Macron labeled Russia as a threat to Europe during a national address.
He proposed extending France's nuclear deterrence to safeguard allied nations and announced intentions to convene military leaders from European countries interested in deploying peacekeeping forces to Ukraine.
This remark provoked a negative reaction from Moscow, with Russian officials mocking Macron and drawing parallels to historical military failures during Napoleon's campaign in Russia in 1812.
Putin referenced this historical context in his remarks, cautioning against underestimating the character of the Russian people while not directly mentioning Macron by name.
Previous discussions by Putin have outlined strict conditions for any peace arrangement, including demands for Ukraine to withdraw its military forces from the four territories claimed and partly controlled by Russia.
As these diplomatic tensions unfold, the international community continues to monitor the implications for peace in the region.