Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed appreciation for comments by U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump, who stated his desire to end the Ukraine conflict, calling them “sincere.” Putin’s remarks came as he concluded the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia.
Putin also issued a warning to the West, stating that it is an “illusion” to think Moscow could be defeated militarily and emphasizing that any peace deal must recognize Russia’s control over substantial Ukrainian territory. The Kremlin leader reiterated that Moscow remains open to peace negotiations but insists that any agreement must reflect “realities on the ground,” referencing territories held by Russian forces.
The three-day BRICS summit saw attendance from leaders or representatives of 36 countries, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signaling that U.S.-led efforts to isolate Russia have not succeeded. During the summit, several BRICS leaders offered to mediate the Ukraine conflict, a proposal Putin said he would consider.
Trump has criticized U.S. financial aid to Ukraine and stated he could end the conflict swiftly if elected. Putin commented, “He [Trump] spoke about his desire to do everything to end the conflict in Ukraine. I think he is being sincere, and we welcome statements like this.”
The summit also featured calls from world leaders for peace across multiple conflicts. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, visiting Russia for the first time in over two years, advocated for a “just peace” in Ukraine based on international law, and urged an end to conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Sudan. His visit was criticized by Russian opposition figure Yulia Navalnaya, who condemned Guterres for meeting with Putin.
Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted the “serious challenges” facing global stability and expressed hope that BRICS nations could act as a “stabilizing force for peace.” He called for a ceasefire in Gaza and renewed efforts toward a two-state solution for Palestine and Israel.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also criticized the UN Security Council, arguing that international bodies lack the necessary efficiency to resolve global crises. The summit concluded with leaders underscoring the importance of peaceful solutions and condemning violence in regions facing ongoing conflicts.