Putin Reaffirms Commitment to Ukraine War Objectives Amid Ongoing Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed Russia's commitment to its objectives in Ukraine, stating that the goals of the military operation will "certainly" be achieved. Speaking at a meeting with defense ministry officials in Moscow, Putin emphasized that Russia would prefer diplomatic means to address the conflict but is prepared to use military force to "liberate historical lands" if necessary.

Defense Minister Andrei Belousov highlighted Russia's military advancements, claiming control over 19.2% of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea and parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions. Belousov also noted plans to expand a "security buffer zone" in Ukraine.

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged European allies to utilize frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, aiming to signal to Russia that continuing the war is futile. Zelenskyy also reported that Ukrainian forces have regained control of nearly 90% of Kupiansk, a strategically significant town in northeastern Ukraine, though Russian officials contest this claim.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the Kremlin confirmed preparations for talks with the United States regarding the conflict, with meetings expected to take place in Miami. However, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated that Russia would not accept any compromise regarding occupied Ukrainian territories, insisting on retaining control over regions including Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson.