Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed establishing a United Nations-sponsored “transitional administration” in Ukraine to facilitate democratic elections and the formation of a legitimate government capable of engaging in peace negotiations. This suggestion arises amidst ongoing discussions for a ceasefire, with U.S. President Donald Trump advocating for a halt to hostilities.
Putin has also called upon Ukraine’s military leadership to depose President Volodymyr Zelensky, whom he has consistently labeled, without substantiation, as a neo-Nazi and drug addict. The Kremlin questions Zelensky’s legitimacy, noting that his initial five-year term concluded in May 2024. However, Ukrainian law permits the suspension of elections during major conflicts, and domestic opposition agrees that elections should be deferred until the cessation of hostilities.
Furthermore, Putin has threatened to “finish off” Ukrainian troops, accusing them of daily attempts to attack Russian energy sites. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia currently adheres to a commitment not to target Ukrainian energy facilities but reserves the right to abandon this moratorium if Kyiv does not comply.
These developments occur as both nations accuse each other of violating agreements related to targeting energy infrastructure, complicating international efforts to mediate a ceasefire.
