"Putin's Diplomatic Efforts: From Ukraine to Africa, Seeking Peace and Allies"
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that an African initiative could serve as a basis for peace in Ukraine, but Ukrainian attacks have made it difficult to realize. Putin mentioned that certain provisions of the peace initiative are being implemented, but others are challenging or impossible to execute. He highlighted that the Ukrainian army's offensive actions prevent a ceasefire, stating that they are under attack and cannot cease fire while being attacked. Putin clarified that Russia has not rejected peace talks, but both sides need to agree for the process to begin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has rejected the idea of a ceasefire that would leave Russia in control of a significant portion of Ukraine.