Putin Proposes Temporary Administration for Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested placing Ukraine under a form of temporary administration to facilitate new elections and sign key agreements toward resolving the war. His remarks, reported by Russian news agencies early Friday, came during a visit to the northern port of Murmansk.

Putin’s idea stems from his long-standing assertion that Ukraine’s current leadership is illegitimate, particularly as President Volodymyr Zelensky remains in power beyond his official term, which was set to end in May 2024. Speaking with seamen at the port, Putin floated the concept of an international oversight structure.

“In principle, a temporary administration could be introduced in Ukraine under the auspices of the U.N., the United States, European countries, and our partners. This would allow for democratic elections, establish a capable government with public trust, and open the door to peace negotiations,” he stated.

While there was no immediate response from Ukraine, a White House National Security Council spokesperson dismissed the idea, emphasizing that Ukraine’s governance is determined by its constitution and the will of its people.

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Putin also claimed that newly re-elected U.S. President Donald Trump genuinely seeks peace, contrasting him with former President Joe Biden, who largely avoided direct engagement with Moscow. “In my opinion, the newly elected president of the United States sincerely wants an end to the conflict for a number of reasons,” Putin remarked.

Meanwhile, European leaders continue their own diplomatic push. Following a high-level meeting in Paris on Thursday, France and Britain pledged to strengthen Kyiv’s military, ensuring it remains the backbone of Ukraine’s security. Both countries have also sought broader support for a foreign “reassurance force” in the event of a truce, an idea that Russia firmly opposes.

President Zelensky has consistently rebuffed claims that his leadership lacks legitimacy. Ukrainian law prohibits elections under martial law, making a wartime vote logistically impossible. Instead, Zelensky has accused Putin of seeking to prolong the war rather than negotiate in good faith.

Adding another dimension to the conflict, the Trump administration has proposed a new and broader minerals deal with Ukraine. Sources familiar with the negotiations suggest that Trump views this agreement as a way to tie U.S. economic interests to Ukraine’s stability, potentially laying the groundwork for a peace deal.

Putin, in his remarks, reiterated that Russia remains committed to its military objectives. “Our troops are holding the strategic initiative along the entire frontline. We are making steady progress—perhaps not as fast as some might like—but we are persistently and confidently moving toward our goals,” he said.

More than three years after launching a full-scale invasion, Russia now controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory and has formally annexed four regions. Russian forces have also reclaimed areas in the western Kursk region following a Ukrainian counteroffensive last August.

Putin praised alternative global alliances like BRICS, highlighting China and India’s role in seeking a resolution. He also expressed willingness to work with North Korea, despite Western allegations that over 11,000 North Korean troops have already been deployed to assist Russia in the conflict—claims Moscow has not officially confirmed.

As for Europe, Putin accused European nations of inconsistency. “They try to lead us around by the nose, but we’ve grown used to it. I hope we won’t make any mistakes based on excessive trust in our so-called partners,” he remarked.

Putin’s suggestion of a temporary administration in Ukraine has sparked global debate, with the U.S. and European allies firmly rejecting the notion. For now, Ukraine, backed by its allies, remains steadfast in defending its sovereignty, while Russia continues its military and diplomatic maneuvers on multiple fronts.