Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that he believes an opportunity exists to reach an agreement ending the war in Ukraine, while saying the United States, China and other countries are prepared to support efforts toward a settlement.

Speaking at an economic forum in Russia’s Far East, Putin said that despite assistance from other countries, Russia and Ukraine will ultimately have to resolve the conflict themselves. He thanked countries attempting to help facilitate an agreement.

Putin said diplomatic channels between Moscow and Washington remain open and that Russia is prepared to work with anyone who can make a positive contribution to negotiations. He specifically welcomed the involvement of U.S. mediators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

At the same time, Putin accused Kyiv of “state terrorism” over Ukrainian warnings about potential dangers to civilian flights in Russian airspace.

The comments come after President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he remains interested in another round of meetings and a new summit with Putin, but indicated that such a meeting would take place only when the sides are prepared to make meaningful progress toward a peace agreement ending the war.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)