Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested placing Ukraine under a temporary UN-led government to organize fresh elections. The proposal, however, was swiftly dismissed by the United States and was later downplayed by the Kremlin as just “one of the options.”
Putin’s Proposal Sparks Debate
Speaking in a televised address, Putin claimed a UN-backed interim government could help Ukraine hold democratic elections and establish a government that “enjoys the trust of the people.” He said this could pave the way for peace negotiations, though he later clarified that it was merely a suggestion.
“Under the auspices of the United Nations, the United States, and European nations, we could discuss a temporary governance structure for Ukraine,” Putin stated.
US and European Allies Dismiss the Suggestion
The White House quickly rejected Putin’s proposal, emphasizing that Ukraine’s governance is determined by its constitution and people. European leaders, gathered in Paris, reaffirmed their support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and dismissed any attempt to question Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Despite this, Russia has increasingly pointed to Ukraine’s decision to postpone elections as a reason to question its leadership’s legitimacy. Kyiv suspended elections under martial law after Russia’s invasion in 2022, and there is no public pressure to hold a vote while the war continues.
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Ceasefire Violations Add to Tensions
Putin’s remarks came as both Russia and Ukraine accused each other of violating a recently agreed maritime and energy ceasefire.
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In Ukraine, Russian drones struck storage sites for Naftogaz, the country’s largest gas supplier.
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Russia’s defense ministry claimed US-supplied Himars missiles hit a gas metering station in Russia’s Kursk province.
Kyiv condemned the attacks, calling them proof that Russia is not serious about peace talks. Meanwhile, Moscow blamed Kyiv’s military for ignoring ceasefire orders.
US-Ukraine Deal on Rare Earths Sparks Controversy
Ukraine also confirmed it is reviewing a revised US proposal regarding the exploitation of rare earth minerals. The new agreement reportedly grants the US first purchasing rights on extracted resources until it recovers the aid money given to Ukraine, plus 4% interest. Only after that would Ukraine gain access to profits from a joint investment fund.
The original deal, negotiated under Donald Trump, had proposed a 50/50 split of profits. Critics say the new terms favor the US at Ukraine’s expense. Global Witness, a watchdog group, called the deal an act of economic exploitation, accusing Washington of treating Ukraine as a resource colony.
War Talks Remain Stalled
Diplomatic efforts remain slow. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said it was too early to expect direct negotiations between Washington and Moscow. He emphasized that technical discussions must first show progress before any high-level talks can occur.
As Ukraine continues to resist Russian pressure, global powers struggle to find a diplomatic path forward. With both sides holding firm, a lasting peace agreement remains uncertain.
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