Putin: There are chances for peace between Russia and Ukraine
Russia and Ukraine must reach an agreement on a peaceful settlement of the conflict on their own, while other countries, including the United States and China, are ready to assist them.
Russian President Vladimir Putin called this approach by Washington the correct one. He said so at the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF).
"First and foremost, Russia and Ukraine must come to an agreement between themselves. And all the other countries are ready to support and help. And not only the United States, but also the countries present here, the People's Republic of China, for example," Putin said. According to him, these states are contributing to the conflict being settled peacefully.
The president noted that in the end the problem must be resolved precisely by the countries directly involved in the conflict.
"But still, in the end, and above all, this problem must be resolved by the countries involved in the conflict — these are Russia and Ukraine. This approach is correct. But we are grateful to everyone who is trying to make their contribution to settling this issue. Are there chances? In my view, yes, there are," Putin added.
Speaking about contacts with the American side, the Russian leader reported that they are continuing. "We are in contact with the American administration. And we are in contact now, still. And I hope these contacts will continue," he stated.
Putin emphasized that Russia favors a full-fledged restoration of relations with the United States. At the same time, according to him, the result depends not only on Moscow, but also on Washington.
The president noted that Donald Trump is disposed toward positive and constructive work. Contacts between the parties are continuing, including through the special services and representatives of the American administration.
"All of this is working. I hope that in the end it will lead to a positive result," Putin stated.
At the same time, the president acknowledged that so far it is difficult to assess to what extent contacts with the United States are contributing to reaching a peace agreement. According to him, this is connected, among other things, with recent statements by the Ukrainian side. At the same time, contacts between Moscow and Washington are continuing "right now, in the current mode," primarily through the special services.
Source: RBC
