Russia prepared to 'fight until the last Ukrainian,' Putin declares amidst US peace efforts.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that a U.S. delegation is scheduled to visit Moscow in the first half of next week to review the latest American plan aimed at ending Russia's military actions in Ukraine.

During a press briefing in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Thursday, Putin stated that recent discussions between the U.S. and Ukraine have not produced a draft peace agreement, but only a list of issues set for negotiation.

Putin further claimed that signing any documents with Ukraines current leadership would be "pointless," asserting that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy lacks the legitimacy to negotiate on behalf of his country.

In his most detailed comments so far regarding the U.S.-proposed peace initiative, Putin reiterated Russias firm demands, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from territories claimed by Moscow. He dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire agreement before such a withdrawal occurs.

"If Ukrainian troops leave occupied territories, military operations will stop. If not, we will achieve that by force," Putin said.

He added that any negotiations with the U.S. must include recognition of Russias control over Crimea, Donbas, and parts of eastern and southern Ukraine.

Putin expressed confidence in Russia's position on the battlefield, describing a "positive dynamic" across all fronts, and stated that Russia is "ready in principle" to continue fighting.

Regarding the upcoming visit of U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow, Putin noted that the latest American proposals "could serve as a foundation for future agreements."

"We see that the American side is taking into account our position, which we discussed before and after the Anchorage summit with Trump," Putin said. "There are areas where we need to sit down and thoroughly discuss specific issues."

Putin also addressed a leaked recording reportedly featuring a call between Trumps envoy Steve Witkoff and Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, in which Witkoff appeared to give advice on presenting Russian peace plans to Trump.

"This might be fabricated," Putin commented. "Perhaps there really was eavesdropping, which is a criminal offense in our country. This isnt about usit reflects a clash of opinions between the collective West and the U.S. over how to end the hostilities."

Reporters Anna Sergeeva and Othon Leyva contributed to this article.

Analysis: U.S. Delegation Visit Highlights Russia's Firm Stance

Next week’s scheduled visit of a U.S. delegation to Moscow underscores the ongoing challenges in negotiating an end to Russia's military actions in Ukraine. According to President Vladimir Putin, no draft peace agreement exists yet between Washington and Kyiv, only a list of negotiation points. Putin continues to question the legitimacy of President Zelenskyy to negotiate on behalf of Ukraine.

Putin reiterated Russia’s core demands, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from territories claimed by Moscow, and dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire before such conditions are met. He emphasized that negotiations must recognize Russian control over Crimea, Donbas, and parts of eastern and southern Ukraine.

Despite the firm stance, Putin acknowledged that the American proposals could provide a foundation for future discussions, signaling at least a willingness to engage with the U.S. delegation led by Steve Witkoff. However, the Kremlin maintains confidence in its military position and appears prepared to continue operations if demands are not met.

Overall, the upcoming visit will likely serve more as a platform to clarify positions and explore negotiation frameworks rather than produce immediate agreements, reflecting the deep gaps between Russia’s objectives and Western expectations.

Sources:

• Russia ready to 'fight to the last Ukrainian,' Putin says amid US peace drive