Vladimir Putin has asserted that Russian forces are making steady progress across the battlefield and could soon bring Ukraine’s military resistance to an end. He also accused European nations of obstructing diplomatic efforts, suggesting they were prolonging the conflict by fostering unrealistic expectations about Russia’s defeat. According to him, the Ukrainian people have been misled into believing that Western backing could change the course of the war.
Since launching a full-scale invasion three years ago, Russia has gradually expanded its control over Ukrainian territory, primarily in the eastern regions. However, Ukrainian forces have continued to resist, reclaiming certain areas such as a village in Luhansk. Despite Russia’s incursion near Kharkiv in May 2024—an advance that displaced thousands—Ukrainian defenses have held firm. Although the city endures repeated aerial bombardment, it remains outside Russian artillery range.
Meanwhile, Russia’s push toward Pokrovsk marks one of the most significant shifts in months along the Donetsk front. Nevertheless, Ukrainian forces have employed adaptive strategies that have significantly hindered Russia’s progress, inflicting heavy personnel and equipment losses. Andriy Yermak, a senior official in President Zelensky’s administration, maintains that Russia’s actions are deliberately obstructing efforts toward a peaceful resolution.
Against this backdrop, Putin has floated the idea of a transitional administration in Ukraine, suggesting that the United Nations oversee governance until elections can be held. He framed this as a step toward stabilizing the country and facilitating negotiations with a new leadership. Citing historical precedents such as UN involvement in East Timor and former Yugoslavia, he claimed that international oversight of Ukraine’s political transition could lay the groundwork for a legitimate, globally recognized peace agreement. Putin further stated that discussions on this proposal could take place with Western governments and Russia’s allies.
