Russian President Vladimir Putin stated he is prepared to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, offering an invitation to Moscow. However, he questioned the value of such a meeting. Putin reiterated that Russia’s goals in the Ukraine conflict are not territorial expansion but the protection of ‘people’s rights.’ He also restated his opposition to Ukraine joining NATO. He emphasized that if Zelenskyy is interested in peace, he is welcome to come to Moscow. Putin acknowledged every nation’s right to choose its security guarantees, including Ukraine, but asserted this principle applies to Russia’s security as well. Putin said, “We are against Ukraine joining NATO,” warning that the alliance’s eastward expansion poses a threat to Russian interests. Putin placed the blame for the war on Western nations, which are providing weapons and economic assistance to Ukraine. He suggested that a peaceful resolution is possible if common sense prevails, noting calls for a solution from the current US administration; otherwise, the conflict will be resolved militarily.
