Putin "Wants End of War Through Diplomacy"... US Criticizes "Putin's Actions Are the Opposite"

Zelensky's Remarks on the Day After Visiting the US

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Haeyoung] President Vladimir Putin expressed his desire to end the war in Ukraine through diplomatic means. This statement came just one day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the United States and held a summit with President Joe Biden, securing over 2 trillion won in military aid. The White House criticized Russia, saying it shows no signs of engaging in negotiations for peace, calling it "completely the opposite."

According to major foreign media on the 22nd (local time), President Putin said, "Our goal is not to keep the wheel of military war turning, but to end the war," adding, "We will strive to end the war, and the sooner, the better."

He stated, "As I have mentioned several times, escalating hostile actions lead to unnecessary losses," and "All armed conflicts end through diplomatic negotiations in some form." He emphasized, "We have never abandoned this position," and added, "It would be better if those hostile to us realize this reality sooner."

President Putin's remarks came just one day after President Biden pledged unwavering strong support during a White House summit with President Zelensky. Biden announced a support package worth $1.85 billion (approximately 2.3 trillion won), including the Patriot missile defense system.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

John Kirby, White House National Security Council (NSC) Coordinator for Strategic Communications, criticized in a briefing, "President Putin has no intention of negotiating to end the war," and said, "Everything he does on land and in the air shows he wants to continue inflicting violence on the Ukrainian people and escalate the war." He added, "President Biden is open to dialogue with Putin, but that will only be possible after Russia consults with Ukraine, the United States, and its allies and shows sincerity in negotiations."

Meanwhile, President Putin criticized the Patriot missile system promised to President Zelensky during his visit to the U.S., calling it an outdated weapon. He said, "The Patriot missile is quite an old weapon and cannot operate like Russia's S-300 system," adding, "There is always an antidote." He further stated, "If they want to deploy the Patriot missiles, let them do so," and "We will destroy those as well."

He also announced that Russia's response to the Western-imposed price cap on Russian crude oil will be announced early next week.