Putin suggests temporary UN administration for Ukraine to end war

Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested discussing the establishment of a temporary government in Ukraine, under the guidance of the UN and several countries, RT reported.

The aim would be to hold fair elections in the country, since Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s presidential term officially expired in May 2024, Putin said.

The Russian leader’s comments come amid U.S. attempts to forge a settlement to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict by re-establishing links with Russia and engaging with both Moscow and Kyiv, in separate talks.

Moscow sees no clear way to sign any agreements with Kyiv since “other leaders might come tomorrow,” Putin explained on Thursday night while addressing the sailors of the Arkhangelsk nuclear submarine, according to RT.

“In such cases, international practice follows a well-known path within the framework of the United Nations peacekeeping activities; several instances have already demonstrated what is referred to as external management or temporary administration,” he said.

External powers should facilitate elections in Ukraine to “establish a capable government that has the trust of the people”, Putin stressed. After that, the new authorities could begin negotiations with Moscow and sign a peace agreement “that would be recognized around the world and will be reliable and stable.”

However, Putin also stressed that temporary governance is only one possible option. “In general, we support resolving conflicts peacefully, including this one, but not at our expense,” he concluded.

A White House National Security Council spokesperson, asked by Reuters about Putin's remarks on temporary administration, said governance in Ukraine was determined by its constitution and the people of the country.