Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Europe on Tuesday: “We don’t plan war, but if you start one, we’re ready right now – and you’ll lose so badly there’s no one left to negotiate with.”
The threat came hours before five-hour talks with US envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump advisor Jared Kushner ended with “no compromise” on occupied Ukrainian territories.
No deal on land
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov called the discussion “constructive” but said Moscow rejects any territorial concessions. Russia’s forces control 19% of Ukraine, including the strategic city of Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk), which Putin hailed as a “key victory” in a video released Monday.
Ukrainian officials deny Pokrovsk has fully fallen, calling Russian claims propaganda to pressure Kyiv during US mediation.
US plan rejected
Witkoff presented a revised US peace proposal – first floated two weeks ago and tweaked with Ukrainian and European input. Putin said some ideas could be discussed, but “much work remains”.
The White House expressed optimism after US-Ukraine talks in Florida, with spokesperson Karoline Leavitt saying: “We’re hopeful this war can finally end.”
European “sabotage”
Putin accused European powers of blocking Trump’s peace efforts: “They have no peaceful agenda – they’re on the side of war.” He threatened retaliation against Ukraine’s ports and vessels after recent Kyiv strikes on Russia’s “shadow fleet” in the Black Sea.
Zelensky under pressure
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris that sovereignty and security guarantees are non-negotiable. He accused Russia of using talks to weaken sanctions.
Zelensky faces domestic turmoil after a corruption scandal forced chief of staff Andriy Yermak to resign Friday.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called this week “pivotal”, warning Moscow negotiates only with those offering more than it already holds.
November’s Russian surge
AFP analysis of ISW data shows Russian forces seized 701 sq km in November – the most since November 2024. Russia launched 5,660 missiles and drones in night raids, up 2% from October.
Also read: Putin to Witkoff: “No compromise” on occupied Ukraine
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