Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that a "long-term solution" to the conflict in Ukraine is not possible without addressing territorial issues, according to a Kremlin official.

During recent negotiations with American negotiators, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Putin emphasized the importance of resolving the territorial issue according to a previously established formula. Witkoff mentioned that discussions had progressed towards a single issue, later confirmed by a European official as being the territorial one. Although Russia expresses its interest in a diplomatic solution, the Kremlin's foreign policy advisor, Yuri Ushakov, added that the invasion will continue on the battlefield until an agreement is reached.