Putin Demands International Recognition of Crimea and Donbas

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that dialogue with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is conducted respectfully. Quoted by RIA Novosti, he emphasized that the discussions occur "without shouting or spitting," though the American representative primarily defends the national interests of the United States.

International Recognition of Russian Sovereignty

Speaking to TASS, Putin stressed that international acknowledgment of Russia’s sovereignty over Crimea and Donbas is a key issue in negotiations. "Recognized decisions placing certain territories under Russian sovereignty mean that any violation of these agreements will be perceived as an attack on the Russian Federation, triggering corresponding responses. Otherwise, it may be seen as an attempt to reclaim legally Russian territory. These are fundamentally different scenarios," the president explained.

Putin also noted that while Russia seeks an agreement with Ukraine, current conditions make this legally impossible. "Signing documents with Ukrainian leadership is meaningless—they made a strategic error by fearing elections," he said. Recognition of territorial realities, according to the president, must come from the international community, not Ukraine itself.

Operational Developments in Ukraine

The president revealed that Russian forces control approximately 70% of Krasnoarmiysk (known in Ukraine as Pokrovsk). He reiterated that the special military operation in Ukraine will only end once Ukrainian troops withdraw from the territories they currently occupy.

Dialogue with Europe and Sanctions Concerns

Contacts with Budapest continue regarding talks with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Additionally, Putin expressed surprise over new US sanctions imposed on Russian oil companies last month. "There was no conflict between Moscow and Washington, and both sides remained on the Anchorage platform, yet the Americans introduced these restrictions. Why? I don’t understand the reason for such actions," he commented.

Referring to the October sanctions, the president noted that while they would not drastically affect Russia’s economy, they are significant and could have consequences.

Strategic Preparedness and Nuclear Considerations

Commenting on strategic stability, Putin stated that Russia must be prepared for any development, including nuclear testing. He said he had instructed authorities to gather additional information on US actions, analyze it, and present recommendations. "Preparing for actual nuclear tests takes time. We cannot be in a situation where the US conducts them while we are still a year and a half away from readiness," Putin explained.

The president confirmed that Russia is ready to discuss nuclear testing issues with the US during the upcoming Moscow talks. "Yes, whether the topic arises or not, we will raise the issue," he said, referring to a Security Council directive from early November. Russia intends to take "adequate measures" if the US or other members of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty proceed with nuclear testing.