Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday said Moscow could consider halting deep strikes on Ukraine during a presidential election, provided certain conditions are met.
Speaking on December 19, Putin said Russia was ready to explore measures to ensure security on voting day if Ukraine proceeds with elections amid the ongoing conflict.
Putin said the pause would depend on allowing Ukrainians living in Russia to vote, estimating their number at between five and 10 million. “We are ready to consider ways to ensure security during elections in Ukraine, at least by refraining from strikes deep inside the country on the day of the vote,” he said, adding that legitimacy requires elections.
The Russian leader warned Kyiv against using elections to gain time to rearm, while reiterating Moscow’s rejection of a temporary ceasefire.
The Kremlin maintains that any lasting peace must address what it calls the conflict’s root causes, including territorial, security, and political demands on Ukraine.