Asger Risom
Russian president calls for new Ukrainian elections under international supervision before treaty negotiations
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As the war in Ukraine drags into its fourth year, Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that a peace treaty with Kyiv will only be possible if Ukraine is placed under a temporary administration to organize fresh elections. His comments come amid growing international pressure to find a political resolution to the conflict.
A Call for UN-Supervised Transition
During a visit to the northern Russian port of Murmansk, Putin proposed that Ukraine could be governed by an interim authority backed by the United Nations, the United States, European countries, and “other partners.” As reported by Digi24, he argued such a framework would pave the way for democratic elections and a government “capable and trusted by the people,” with whom Russia could negotiate peace.
Putin also reiterated his claim that Ukraine’s current leadership is illegitimate, as President Volodymyr Zelensky’s mandate expired in May 2024. Kyiv, however, maintains that under martial law, elections cannot legally be held.
Trump Administration’s Role and Strategic Ambitions
Putin praised U.S. President Donald Trump, claiming he “sincerely wants peace” and prefers direct dialogue with Moscow. These remarks follow news that the Trump administration has offered Ukraine a broad minerals deal, tying future U.S. economic participation to a post-war Ukraine while offering no firm security guarantees in return.
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European leaders, meanwhile, continue to push for greater military support to Ukraine and have floated the idea of a “reassurance force” in case of an eventual ceasefire. Moscow remains staunchly opposed to any foreign troops on Ukrainian soil.
Russia’s Strategic Confidence
Putin claimed Russian forces currently hold the “strategic initiative” along the front line and are progressing “steadily and confidently” toward their military objectives. He emphasized Russia’s openness to peace, but only on its terms: “not at our expense,” he said.
He also expressed support for diplomatic efforts by BRICS nations—especially China and India—as alternatives to Western-led initiatives. Putin suggested Moscow would even work with Europe, despite accusing it of acting “deceptively.”
While Kyiv has not yet officially responded to Putin’s proposal, Zelensky has consistently rejected attempts to question his legitimacy and warned that Russia has no genuine interest in ending the war.
