President Vladimir Putin has announced Russia’s readiness to continue negotiations with Ukraine. This statement was made during a meeting with heads of international news agencies on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

Putin emphasized Russia’s desire to end the conflict in Ukraine as soon as possible, ideally through peaceful means. He indicated that a new round of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia could be possible after June 22.

The Russian President addressed the potential involvement of Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in negotiations. Putin stated that Russia is open to negotiating with anyone, even Zelenskyy, but raised concerns about who would ultimately sign the final documents. He suggested that a meeting with Zelenskyy would be most appropriate at the final stage of negotiations to “put an end” to the conflict.

Putin also asserted that if Zelenskyy is deemed illegitimate, the entire power structure in Ukraine becomes illegitimate.

Regarding casualties, Putin mentioned that Russia has handed over more than 6,000 bodies of Ukrainian servicemen and is ready to hand over an additional 3,000. In return, Russia received 57 bodies.