Russian President Vladimir Putin stated he is prepared to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky—but only during the “final phase” of a peace deal—while asserting Russia’s recent missile strike on Kyiv targeted military-industrial assets rather than civilian areas, Reuters reported from St. Petersburg.
In a press conference with international media, Putin announced that a Russian delegation would be ready to resume talks after June 22. He emphasized that Russia seeks a “peaceful end” to the conflict, urging Kyiv not to delay: “Otherwise, the situation for Kyiv could worsen”.
Putin affirmed he is “ready to meet with everyone, including Zelenskiy,” but stressed the final agreement must be signed by a “legitimate authority,” hinting at legal questions over Zelensky’s authority under Ukraine’s constitution.
Responding to criticism over the attack on Kyiv on June 17, which killed dozens, Putin contended the targeting was aimed at weapons factories, not residential areas. “If your journalists had seen how our missiles destroyed entire military-industrial blocks… they would not have survived,” he said, describing the strike as “demilitarization.” He added that journalists who survived saw only perimeter views.
Discussing U.S.–Russia relations, Putin confirmed ongoing cooperation with President Donald Trump. He said discussions are “advanced” toward a potential Putin–Trump summit, with both leaders’ teams preparing venues. The two have also been working on a U.S.–Russia–Ukraine memorandum outlining a possible peace accord and prisoner swap.
Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov noted Trump described bilateral ties as having “impressive prospects,” emphasizing trade, economic engagement, and mutual interest in ending the war in Ukraine.
On broader issues, Putin addressed NATO and Western efforts, questioning post-Cold War world order adjustments. He also expressed openness to dialogue with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz while cautioning that supplying long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine would draw Germany deeper into conflict, and dismissed NATO threats as “incredible lies.” He reiterated Russia’s objective of ensuring Ukraine cannot threaten its security.
