Putin seeks to end Ukraine conflict; open for talks
President Vladimir Putin stated Russia is winning the war in Ukraine, calling Ukrainian leadership 'terrorists' and ruling out negotiations with them, despite acknowledging Ukrainian attacks inside Russia. He also claimed Russian advances in Donetsk and dismissed rumors of new mobilization, while simultaneously expressing openness to 'concrete' talks if new momentum emerges.
Why it matters
This article provides insight into Russia's current stance and rhetoric regarding the Ukraine conflict, indicating a complex and contradictory position on negotiations while asserting military success. It is crucial for understanding the ongoing geopolitical situation and potential future developments.
President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (September 1, 2026) that Russia was winning the war in Ukraine and portrayed the Ukrainian leadership as “terrorists” with whom it was not possible for Moscow to negotiate.
Mr. Putin, in his most detailed comments on the war for many weeks, acknowledged that Ukrainian attacks inside Russia had inflicted real damage and said that drones posed a particular challenge.
But he said that Russia was advancing on the battlefield and told reporters, “I have no doubt the enemy will crumble.”
He declined to say when that would happen.
Rumours that Russia would be forced to order a new military mobilisation were “utter nonsense”, he said.
Russian troops had captured 270 square km (168 square miles) of the Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine in August, and a large group of Ukrainian troops were surrounded, Putin said.
Reuters could not independently verify his statement.
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