Putin says peace talks must address security for Russia, Ukraine, and Europe

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that any future deal to end the war in Ukraine must focus on security guarantees for both nations and a broader European security framework, signaling readiness to resume US-mediated talks next month. Putin stated Russia seeks a long-term solution, not a short-lived ceasefire, and agreed with US envoy Steve Witkoff that discussions should cover Europe-wide security architecture. He reiterated that Russia never wanted war but faced hostile reactions from Ukraine on key concerns. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv is ready for talks and supports ceasefire proposals. Putin insisted eastern Ukraine's Donbas region is "historically Russian land," citing referendums, while Kyiv rejects ceding any territory it currently holds.