Putin urges Ukraine to negotiate or face military force

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed skepticism about the prospects of meeting Ukrainian President Zelensky to discuss ending the Ukraine conflict, citing legal and technical difficulties and demanding recognition of annexed territories, while Zelensky rejected any negotiations that involve recognizing occupied regions. Putin also emphasized that foreign troops in Ukraine would be considered legitimate targets, amid ongoing international discussions on security guarantees and peacekeeping efforts. The situation remains tense with little indication of imminent peace negotiations.