Putin lays down 3 'maximalist' demands to end war: Report
What's the story
Russian President Vladimir Putin has put forth three key demands in the negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine war, suggested a Bloomberg report.
His "maximalist" demands include Ukraine's formal commitment to neutrality, the abandonment of any NATO aspirations, and recognition of Russian claims over annexed territories.
The report said the conditions are deliberately excessive, and there's no indication of compromise from the Russian leader on any of them.
Peacekeepers
Russia rejects deployment of European peacekeepers
Russia has also rejected European peacekeepers, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov having "ruled out European peacekeepers" being sent in to stabilize the situation.
This goes against US and European attempts to broker a sustainable resolution.
President Donald Trump recently claimed Putin wanted peace, but his demands indicate otherwise.
Ahead of Ukraine's talk with the US in Saudi Arabia, UK PM Sir Keir Starmer had urged US President Trump to ensure negotiations lead to a positive outcome.
Coalition
Coalition of nations to support Ukraine convenes
"The prime minister said he hoped there would be a positive outcome to the talks that would enable U.S. aid and intelligence sharing to be restarted," a spokesperson told reporters.
After the talks, Ukraine said it is ready to accept an immediate 30-day ceasefire with Russia proposed by the US.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US will now make an offer to Russia, leaving the ball in Moscow's court.
Agreement
US said it would immediately restart intelligence sharing
In a joint statement, the US also stated that it will immediately resume information sharing and security support to Ukraine, which had been suspended following a public at the White House between Zelenskyy and Trump.
"Both delegations agreed to name their negotiating teams and immediately begin negotiations toward an enduring peace that provides for Ukraine's long-term security," the US-Ukraine statement said.