Moscow Open to Peace, Backs China-Brazil Initiative

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed Moscow’s efforts to foster peace in Ukraine, while endorsing a joint peace initiative from China and Brazil. Unveiled in May, this proposal advocates for renewed peace negotiations without mandating Russian troop withdrawal. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed the plan, insisting on a complete Russian pullout as a prerequisite for talks.

As the conflict enters its third year, Putin also confirmed his absence from the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil. He cited concerns about potentially disrupting the forum’s proceedings, given the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against him for alleged involvement in deporting Ukrainian children. Despite cordial relations with Brazilian President Lula, Putin indicated his reluctance to attend due to the arrest warrant and international pressures.