Putin suggests a provisional government for Ukraine to hold fresh elections and engage in peace talks

Putin has proposed a short-term government in Ukraine to support elections and peace talks.

According to Russian news outlets, Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed putting Ukraine under temporary administration in order to hold fresh elections and allow for a peace agreement. The remarks, which were made on Friday while visiting Murmansk, come as the US aims to resume contact with Russia and hold separate discussions with Kyiv and Moscow.

Putin’s approach seeks to resolve his long-standing argument that the conflict and the expiration of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s term in May 2024 make the Ukrainian government, led by Zelensky, an unfit partner for negotiations.

Putin was cited as stating, “In principle, of course, a temporary administration could be introduced in Ukraine under the auspices of the United States, the United Nations, European countries, and our partners.” “The purpose of this would be to hold democratic elections, install a capable government that enjoys the confidence of the people, and then begin negotiations with them regarding a peace treaty.”

The suggestion coincides with US President Donald Trump’s attempts to hold direct negotiations with Russia, as opposed to Joe Biden’s refusal to do so. “In my opinion, the newly elected president of the United States sincerely wants an end to the conflict for a number of reasons,” Putin said, expressing confidence that Trump genuinely wants peace.

A White House National Security Council official responded by reaffirming that the Ukrainian people and their constitution would decide how the country is governed. Ukrainian officials did not immediately comment.

European leaders, especially those from Britain and France, have pledged to keep bolstering Ukraine’s military in the meanwhile. Despite Moscow’s opposition to any foreign military presence in Ukraine, they are also seeking to increase support for a foreign “reassurance force” to strengthen the country’s security.