Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed proposals for security assurances to Ukraine during a Beijing press conference, framing Moscow’s stance as non-opposition only if it doesn’t threaten Russian interests. The Kremlin reiterated its opposition to Ukraine joining NATO while suggesting EU membership could be permissible under certain conditions.
Putin emphasized that Russia’s focus is not on territorial expansion but on protecting the rights of ethnic Russians in regions like Crimea, Donetsk, and Lugansk, which he claimed voted overwhelmingly to join Russia in referendums. “This is democracy,” he asserted, despite international disputes over the legitimacy of these votes.
The leader also downplayed reports of U.S.-Russia talks about territorial exchanges during his Alaska meeting with former President Donald Trump, calling such claims unfounded. While expressing openness to a potential summit with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, Putin cast doubt on Zelensky’s authority, citing the expiration of his term last May and his refusal to hold elections amid ongoing martial law.
Zelensky’s continued rule, Putin implied, lacks democratic legitimacy, leaving unresolved questions about Ukraine’s leadership. The president’s comments underscored Russia’s insistence on geopolitical priorities over compromise, as tensions with Kyiv persist.
The press conference concluded without concrete steps toward de-escalation, reflecting the deepening divide between Moscow and Western allies over Ukraine’s future.
