Russian President Vladimir Putin has sharply escalated his conditions for ending the war in Ukraine, demanding the full withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from all territories Moscow claims as its own—including areas illegally annexed or occupied by Russia.
The expanded demands cover Crimea, seized by Russia in 2014, as well as the Donbas region—Luhansk and Donetsk—large parts of which are under Russian military occupation.
Putin confirmed that a new U.S.-backed peace plan has already been delivered to Moscow and said the proposal “could serve as a basis for future agreements,” referencing recent discussions with American negotiators.
Putin: U.S. Plan Contains 28 Points
“We discussed resolving the conflict in Ukraine with American negotiators before my visit to Alaska. After that, a list of 28 points was formed,” Putin said.
“In general, we agree that the U.S.-supported peace plan could be used as a foundation for future negotiations. But it would be inappropriate for me to speak about a final version, because no such version exists.”
Russia Seeks Recognition of Occupied Territories
Asked whether Crimea and Donbas could be recognized de facto as Russian territory but not de jure, Putin confirmed that this was actively under discussion with the United States.
“You are right. This is one of the key issues,” he said, signaling that Moscow aims to secure Western acceptance of its territorial claims, even if formal legal recognition is withheld.
Further Diplomatic Movement Expected
Putin announced that a U.S. delegation is expected in Moscow next week, while Ukraine anticipates a visit from the U.S. Secretary of the Army, signaling a period of intense diplomatic activity.
The Kremlin’s expanded demands, however, sharply undermine hopes for a realistic peace agreement, as Ukraine has repeatedly stated it will not surrender occupied territories, and Western officials have insisted that borders cannot be redrawn through force.
