US-RUSSIA: We Do Not Reject Peaceful Settlement To UKR Crisis - Putin

Reuters reporting comments from Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking at an event with Russian security officials. Putin says that “first contacts” with the Trump administration “inspire hope” that Moscow and Washington are “ready to set up cooperation”.

• Putin says Russia does “not reject peaceful solution to Ukraine crisis” but stresses that it is important that those involved in talks show "pragmatism" and “reject stereotypes of their predecessors.”
• Putin claims, “We understand that some Western elites will try to undermine our dialogue with US.” Adds: “Additional measures should be introduced to defend Russia’s state border.”
• Putin’s comments come amid a delicate stage of negotiations towards a ceasefire agreement. The Kremlin likely believes that Trump’s conciliatory tone towards Moscow can lead to a ceasefire agreement that blocks Ukraine’s pathway to NATO membership, formalises Russian sovereignty over occupied territories, and limits the presence of NATO/EU peacekeeping troops in Ukraine - An exceptionally difficult settlement for Kyiv to accept, despite political will for a resolution.
• Focus of Trump's meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer today and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tomorrow will be any security assurances that can entice Kyiv to the negotiating table, including language in mineral sharing agreement.   
• Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated in Qatar yesterday that Russia will oppose European peacekeepers in Ukraine, appearing to rule out one possible security assurance: "This approach, which is being imposed by the Europeans, primarily France, but also the British, is aimed at what I just mentioned: to further fuel the conflict..."