Russian President Vladimir Putin praised U.S. President Donald Trump for what he called “serious efforts to conclude this conflict,” describing the American leader as “sincere” in trying to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking in Moscow, Putin claimed Russia had broadly agreed to certain compromises during the Anchorage talks with Trump, though he did not specify the details.

“The ball is entirely in the court of our western so-called opponents, the chief of the Kyiv regime, and … their European sponsors,” Putin said, shifting responsibility for progress onto Ukraine and its allies.

Russia Denies Threat to Europe

Addressing concerns about potential attacks on Europe, Putin reaffirmed that Russia does not intend to strike NATO countries. He highlighted the new U.S. security strategy, noting that it “does not mention Russia as a main threat,” and pointedly blamed NATO’s eastward expansion for ongoing tensions.

Security Guarantees Key to Peace

Putin emphasized that the conflict could end if Russia receives security guarantees. He did not detail what these would entail, though previous statements suggest Moscow seeks broad assurances regarding NATO’s presence in Eastern Europe.

“Ending the Ukraine war would require resolving ‘the root causes of the conflict,’” Putin said, reiterating long-standing grievances about NATO’s expansion over the past 30 years, which he claims moved military infrastructure closer to Russian borders.

Relations with NATO and the Media

Putin also commented on broader relations with NATO, maintaining that Moscow’s concerns stem from alliance expansion despite prior guarantees. Separately, he expressed support for Trump’s legal challenge against the BBC, signaling continued alignment with the U.S. president on media issues.