Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday said he remained hopeful that peace talks with Ukraine could continue, despite reaffirming that Moscow’s military objectives remain unchanged. His remarks come just one week before a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has demanded a ceasefire or threatened fresh sanctions, including on nations purchasing Russian energy.
Speaking during a meeting with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in northern Russia, Putin said discussions with Ukraine should proceed “without cameras and in a calm atmosphere,” suggesting that working groups from both sides could explore possible compromises. However, he offered no indication of any shift in Russia’s core demands or military strategy.
“If someone is disappointed in the results of peace talks so far, it is likely because they had unrealistic expectations,” Putin told reporters.
The Russian leader also asserted that his forces were making gains on the battlefield, claiming momentum was on Russia’s side. He cited the reported capture of the eastern Ukrainian town of Chasiv Yar, a strategic objective Moscow’s forces have fought to seize for 16 months. However, Ukrainian officials have denied that the town is fully under Russian control.
Trump, who returned to the presidency in January vowing to swiftly end the war, has given Russia until August 8 to agree to a ceasefire or face a new round of U.S. sanctions. These would reportedly extend to countries that continue to import Russian oil and gas, further tightening economic pressure on Moscow.
While Putin’s comments strike a cautiously diplomatic tone, they also signal a continued commitment to Russia’s current course in Ukraine, raising uncertainty over whether a negotiated truce is imminent.
Written By Rodney Mbua
