Putin proposes external oversight for Ukraine elections

Russian President Vladimir Putin continues to challenge the legitimacy of Ukraine’s government, casting doubt on ongoing peace negotiations between the two countries. He has proposed placing Ukraine under interim governance overseen by the UN to conduct elections, going beyond just a presidential vote.

«External governance would allow elections to take place in Ukraine and bring to power a capable and trusted government of the people. With them, Russia could negotiate a peace treaty and sign documents that would be globally recognized, reliable and stable,» Putin said, according to Russia’s RBC news agency.

He claimed that Moscow is uncertain about whom to sign a treaty with, arguing that Ukraine’s leadership could change at any moment, potentially rendering any peace agreement illegitimate.

Putin has repeatedly stated that Ukraine should hold a presidential election, while also emphasizing his willingness to pursue long-term peace.

On March 19, reports surfaced about the territories Moscow aims to seize from Kyiv. The Kremlin indicated it would not claim Odesa, provided Ukraine recognizes Russia’s annexation of former Ukrainian territories.