A Plan for Temporary Control

Putin’s idea is that the United Nations, the United States, European countries, and Russia’s partners could help manage a temporary government in Ukraine. This administration would organize democratic elections and create a government trusted by the Ukrainian people. The goal would be to start peace talks between the new Ukrainian government and Russia, aiming for a peace treaty.

Putin’s comments come as part of his broader effort to justify Russia’s military actions. He claims that Russia has made steady progress in the war, even though it hasn't achieved its goals as quickly as some would have liked. Putin also said that Russia wants peace but won’t accept a settlement that harms its interests.

The U.S. has responded to Putin’s proposal. A White House National Security Council spokesperson stated that Ukraine’s government is a matter for the Ukrainian people and its constitution, not foreign powers. This statement underscores that Ukraine, as a sovereign country, has the right to choose its leadership and future.

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Trump’s Role in Peace Talks

Putin also spoke about U.S. President Donald Trump, saying he believes Trump genuinely wants to end the war. According to Putin, Trump’s willingness to talk directly with Russia is proof of his desire for peace. This contrasts with President Joe Biden, who has largely avoided direct talks with Russia since the war began.

Trump has suggested that a deal involving Ukraine’s mineral resources could help secure peace. He believes that giving the U.S. a financial stake in Ukraine’s future could make both sides more willing to negotiate a resolution.

While Putin praised Trump’s peace efforts, he also made it clear that Russia is open to talks with other countries, including China and India. Putin has emphasized that Russia is not alone in trying to find a peaceful solution and that countries in the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are playing a role in these efforts. Putin also said Russia is willing to work with North Korea to help end the conflict, though the extent of North Korea's involvement remains unclear.

The Situation on the Ground in Ukraine

On the battlefield, Russia controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory. Moscow has also declared four Ukrainian regions as part of Russia. In recent months, Russian forces have regained territory they lost during Ukraine’s counteroffensive in the summer of 2023, especially in the Kursk region in western Russia. Despite the ongoing fighting, Putin remains confident that Russia is moving closer to its goals, even if progress is slower than expected.

Western and Ukrainian officials have claimed that Russia has received support from North Korea. Reports suggest that more than 11,000 North Korean troops have been sent to help Russian forces, especially in the Kursk region. However, Russia has not confirmed these reports.

Putin also expressed frustration with European countries. He claimed that Europe has been inconsistent and tries to manipulate Russia. However, he said Russia has grown used to this and would avoid making the mistake of trusting its so-called partners in the future.

Challenges Ahead

Putin’s suggestion of a temporary administration in Ukraine is likely to face strong opposition from both Ukraine and the West. Ukraine has repeatedly stated that it will not accept any plan that undermines its sovereignty. The Ukrainian government is focused on defending its territory and pushing for the full withdrawal of Russian troops. While Putin insists that Russia’s military is making steady progress, Ukraine remains determined to defend its land and people.

The U.S. and other Western countries have supported Ukraine throughout the war, providing weapons and economic aid. They are also pushing for peace talks that respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. However, many Western leaders are skeptical of Russia’s true intentions and question whether Putin is genuinely interested in peace or simply trying to gain time to strengthen Russia’s position.

For now, the conflict continues, with no clear end in sight. Both sides are entrenched in their positions. Ukraine is focused on defending its land, while Russia is working to maintain control over the regions it has captured. The outcome will depend on how both sides handle the military and political challenges ahead, as well as the role of international actors in shaping the future of Ukraine.

Putin’s proposal for a temporary administration in Ukraine is part of his strategy to present Russia as a key player in any future peace talks. However, the idea of foreign powers controlling Ukraine’s government is likely to be rejected by both Ukraine and its Western allies. The war continues to cause immense suffering, and finding a lasting solution will require careful negotiations and respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty. As the conflict goes on, the world waits to see how the situation will unfold and whether a peaceful resolution is possible.

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