Vladimir Putin has been talking about the war in Ukraine overnight.
His latest suggestion is for the country to be put under a temporary administration to allow for elections.
This, he said, would then pave the way for peace.
“In principle, of course, a temporary administration could be introduced in Ukraine under the auspices of the UN, the United States, European countries and our partners,” Putin was quoted as saying, during a visit to a new nuclear submarine.
“This would be in order to hold democratic elections and bring to power a capable government enjoying the trust of the people and then to start talks with them about a peace treaty.”
While Washington and Moscow have appeared to be on the same page on a number of issues, their line on this matter differs.
Asked about Putin’s remarks, a White House National Security Council spokesperson said governance in Ukraine was determined by its constitution and the people of the country.
For context: Under Ukraine’s constitution, the country cannot hold elections while under martial law, which has been in effect since Russia’s invasion in 2022.
The country had been due to go to the polls last year, but it’s not unusual for nations to delay election during a time of war – as the UK did during the Second World War.
Putin has been in power for nearly 25 years, and Russia has long been considered by observers as undemocratic.