Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stark warning to European leaders, declaring that Russia is “ready” for war if Europe chooses that path. The comments come as diplomatic efforts intensify to secure a potential peace agreement to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Speaking ahead of high-level talks with United States envoys in Moscow, Putin accused European governments of attempting to sabotage emerging negotiations aimed at halting the nearly three-year-old war. He suggested that certain European states were resisting progress in order to prolong the conflict.
The US delegation is expected to present an updated peace framework during its discussions with Russian officials. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he anticipates a briefing from Washington after the meeting and expressed readiness to meet US President Donald Trump again as part of broader diplomatic efforts.
Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine remains committed to a negotiated settlement but will not accept any arrangement that undermines its sovereignty or territorial integrity.
On the battlefield, the Russian Defence Ministry released video footage claiming that Russian troops have taken full control of the strategic eastern city of Pokrovsk. The city, located in the Donetsk region, has long been seen as a vital logistics hub for Ukrainian forces.
However, Ukraine’s military dismissed Moscow’s claims, insisting it still holds the northern sector of Pokrovsk. “Fierce fighting is still ongoing,” Ukrainian officials said, adding that reinforcements have been deployed to stabilise the front.
Independent verification of battlefield claims remains difficult due to restricted access to the area.
Putin’s comments mark a significant escalation in rhetoric, coming at a time when international actors — particularly the United States — are attempting to revive stalled peace efforts. Analysts say his warning could be aimed at pressuring Western nations to reconsider military support for Ukraine as talks approach a sensitive phase.
European leaders have not yet formally responded to the Kremlin’s latest statements, but several countries have recently reaffirmed their support for Ukraine and continued sanctions on Russia.