Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is prepared to wait for negotiations with Ukraine if the Ukrainian leadership believes the timing is not right. This announcement came during a press conference following a meeting with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

Putin emphasized that, while Russia is willing to wait, negotiations are always a preferred option. He affirmed that Russia’s conditions for these negotiations remain consistent with those presented in the summer of 2024. He clarified that these conditions are, in fact, the goals Russia aims to achieve in Ukraine, which were initially outlined at a meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation in June of last year in response to claims that Russia’s objectives were unclear.

The primary goal, according to Putin, is to ensure the safety of Russians. He expressed his support for achieving a long-term peace in Ukraine, without any set time limitations.

Furthermore, Putin commented on the negotiation process with Ukraine, assessing it positively due to the return of individuals to their homeland through exchanges. He specifically mentioned the handover of bodies of deceased Ukrainian soldiers in exchange for the return of Russian soldiers. He noted that while working groups proposed by Vladimir Medinsky have not yet commenced their work, the initial response to the proposal was positive.

Putin stressed the importance of thorough and calm discussions, conducted in private, to facilitate a peaceful resolution. He cautioned against excessive expectations in negotiations, as they often lead to disappointment.

The Russian President also suggested discussing the issue of peace in Ukraine within the broader context of pan-European security.

In related news, the first serial “Oreshnik” complex has been delivered to Russian troops.