BISHKEK: Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Moscow would end its offensive in Ukraine only if Kyiv withdraws from territories claimed by Russia, warning that otherwise Russian forces would seize them by military means. Putin made the remarks during a visit to Kyrgyzstan, amid Russia’s slow but persistent advance in eastern Ukraine.
Read More: Putin blames West, defends Ukraine war at summit
The Russian army has been steadily pressing in costly battles against Ukrainian forces, particularly in the Donetsk region. Putin claimed that Ukrainian units were encircled in Pokrovsk and Myrnograd, while Moscow’s troops continued to advance toward Vovchansk, Siversk, and the strategic hub of Guliaipole. Ukraine has denied these claims, insisting its forces continue to hold the front lines.
Putin says US plan could “form basis” for Ukraine peace, warns of forceful land seizure if Kyiv doesn’t withdraw
Read @ANI Story | https://t.co/7X3Em6TZaI#Putin #US #UkrainePeacePlan pic.twitter.com/yO3JAWFNtx
— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) November 27, 2025
Washington is meanwhile pushing to end the nearly four-year war, presenting a surprise peace plan it hopes to finalise through upcoming talks with Moscow and Kyiv. The original US draft would have required Kyiv to withdraw from eastern Donetsk and effectively recognise Russian claims over Donetsk, Crimea, and Lugansk, though the plan has been scaled back after criticism from Kyiv and European allies. Putin said he had seen the revised draft and considered it a potential “negotiation starter.”
Putin warned that he will seize more territory if Ukraine rejects the US plan – AFP pic.twitter.com/WGjkmHbmlL
— Current Report (@Currentreport1) November 21, 2025
The conflict has killed hundreds of thousands and displaced millions since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Western security guarantees for Ukraine remain a major sticking point, with Kyiv demanding assurances against future Russian incursions. Putin also questioned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s legitimacy, claiming that signing any agreement with him would be “almost impossible,” a statement that drew strong rebukes from Kyiv and its allies.
Read More: Russia backs Trump’s peace plan for Ukraine
Analysts say Russian forces have expanded their controlled territory at an average of 467 square kilometres per month in 2025, an increase from 2024. The ongoing war remains Europe’s deadliest since World War II, with the prospects for a negotiated settlement uncertain as military operations continue across eastern Ukraine.