Russian forces hold 'strategic initiative' on Ukraine frontline: Putin
3 Min Read
Putin has suggested talks between the US, European nations, and other partners for a transitional administration in Ukraine.
-
Russian President Vladimir Putin inspects the nuclear-powered submarine Arkhangelsk at the Atomflot, a service base for nuclear-powered fleet, in Murmansk, Russia, Thursday, March 27, 2025. (AP)
Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on Friday that Russian forces have the "strategic initiative" along the Ukraine frontline and could "finish them off," floating the idea of establishing a "transitional administration" for Ukraine under the auspices of the United Nations.
Speaking in the northwestern city of Murmansk, Putin said that "along the entire frontline, our forces have the strategic initiative."
He further stated, "There are reasons to believe that we will finish them off," adding that "the Ukrainian people themselves should understand what is happening."
His comments come as Russia engages in direct talks with the United States, the mediator for a ceasefire between Moscow and Kiev after more than three years of conflict. Meanwhile, European leaders have met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to coordinate their approach.
Putin, in turn, suggested that discussions could take place with the US, European countries, and other partners about the possibility of forming a transitional administration in Ukraine.
The Russian president elaborated on the purpose of such an administration, clarifying that it would help "organize a democratic presidential election that would result in the coming to power of a competent government that would have the confidence of the people, and then begin negotiations with these authorities on a peace agreement and sign legitimate documents."
Putin also noted that transitional administrations have been implemented under the UN's framework before, citing the example of East Timor in 1999.
Ukraine's allies meet in Paris to discuss new aid, security commitment
His remarks came a day after Ukraine’s European allies convened in Paris for a meeting with Zelensky. Following the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France and Britain were preparing plans for a "reassurance force" in Ukraine, contingent on an end to the fighting.
Macron clarified that this force would not serve as peacekeepers, be deployed on the frontline, or act as a substitute for the Ukrainian army.
"First and foremost [we will discuss] the immediate support for Ukraine. It must go on because it is necessary to continue the resistance," Macron told reporters on Wednesday evening at a press conference with Zelensky.
Macron pledged an additional €2 billion in French military aid, including missiles, warplanes, and air defense systems, while Zelenskiy suggested other partners might announce aid packages on Thursday.
The summit seeks to define Europe’s role in potential peace talks, with its conclusions to be shared with the US, despite its absence.
Read more: Ukrainian intel recruiting in Russia under US RAND cover: FSB
