Russia’s Putin signals cautious green light for US-backed Ukraine peace plan, says talks must get “serious”

Russian President Vladimir Putin has struck a cautiously optimistic note on a US-backed draft peace plan for Ukraine, saying it could form the basis of a future agreement, though stressing that key details still need negotiation.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday during a state visit to Kyrgyzstan, the Russian president said Moscow sees potential in the proposal and is prepared for deeper engagement.

“In general, we agree that this can be the basis for future agreements,” he said, adding that Russia is ready for “serious” discussions.

Putin also confirmed that US President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, would soon travel to Moscow, with talks expected to focus on the status of Russia’s Donbas and Crimea.

“There is no final version of the plan to speak of,” Putin said.

The White House last week unveiled a 28-point peace proposal that critics widely described as overly favourable to Russia. It reportedly called for Ukraine to make major territorial concessions and abandon its ambitions to join NATO.

Since then, the plan has been adjusted following Ukrainian input.

However, the full revised proposal remains unpublished.

Kyiv, meanwhile, is keeping its options open.