Putin: a ceasefire is not needed to begin negotiations on Ukraine

Vladimir Putin stated that a suspension of hostilities is not a mandatory condition for the start of negotiations on Ukraine.

The Russian president made the remarks at a meeting with the heads of international news agencies held as part of the St. Petersburg Economic Forum (SPIEF-2026).

“On the matter of suspending hostilities in order to begin negotiations [on Ukraine]. In order to begin negotiations, there is no need for a suspension of hostilities. Well, there is no need. We have had negotiations before, and the hostilities did not stop,” he said.

Putin also recalled that the Armed Forces of Russia are liberating new settlements in the special military operation zone on a daily basis.

On June 4, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed an open letter to Putin asking him to set a date for a personal meeting in order to “end this war.” The Ukrainian president named Switzerland, Turkey, and Arab world countries as possible venues for negotiations. Ukraine is prepared to declare a full ceasefire for the duration of the talks, according to the letter. Zelensky said the United States could oversee compliance with the truce.

Earlier, Putin said that at the signing of a peace agreement he would tell the Ukrainian president: “Thank God all of this is over.” He also indicated that, despite the Russian side’s questions about Zelensky’s legitimacy, he could sign an agreement with him. The key thing, the head of state stressed, “would be the will,” and if there is will, a way to formalize it can be found.

Putin also stated that Moscow is ready for compromises on the Ukrainian question.