Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced that Russia will seek security guarantees to consider engaging in talks to resolve the Ukrainian crisis. In an interview with RIA Novosti, he emphasized that “ground realities” should form the basis of any negotiations. Putin reiterated Russia’s willingness to peacefully resolve the conflict, prioritizing Russia’s security. He also dismissed the notion of using tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine, believing that Russia and the U.S. are not heading towards a nuclear conflict.
Furthermore, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that Russia would not participate in a peace conference on Ukraine hosted by Switzerland, even if officially invited, as reported by the Russian news agency. The Kremlin has previously expressed that peace talks without Russia’s participation are unacceptable, following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hopes for a spring summit in Switzerland to discuss his peace vision with Kyiv’s allies.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan also warned against actions that could worsen the Ukrainian crisis and spread it to NATO. He plans to host Putin in Turkey after the upcoming elections. Erdoğan highlighted Turkey’s efforts to revive the Black Sea grain export agreement, mediated with Moscow and Kyiv in cooperation with the United Nations. He affirmed Turkey’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, stressing that peace plans excluding Russia would be ineffective.
On the battlefield, the use of drones and artillery has been prevalent, with both sides launching attacks and counterattacks. The conflict has also seen Ukraine pushing for breakthroughs in grain exports amid a Russian blockade, raising concerns over global food security. Additionally, the war has seen internal dissent in Russia, with opposition figures facing arrests for allegedly spreading “fake information” about the Russian army.
