Putin: If Kiev refuses peace, Russia will achieve its goals by force
Russian President Vladimir Putin has again accused Ukraine of being unwilling to end the war peacefully. In his words, Kiev is not interested in peace and Russia therefore plans to achieve its goals by military force.
In response to the large-scale overnight attack on Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that this, on the contrary, demonstrates Russia's determination to continue the war. He also claims that Kiev is interested in a peaceful solution.
Putin made these remarks after an inspection visit by Russian commanders who briefed him on military successes in the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhya regions.
According to the Kremlin, Russian troops have taken control of several towns, including Myrnohrad and Hulyapol. Kiev admits that the situation in both areas is tense and the defence difficult, but the military says the Russians have failed to make any real breakthroughs.
The White House has not yet commented on Putin's claims.
(reuters, pir)