Putin Demands Ukraine Withdrawal; Vows to Capture Territory by Force if Necessary

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In a stark warning to Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Moscow will end its military campaign in Ukraine if Kyiv withdraws from territories claimed by Russia. If Ukraine refuses, Putin vowed to use military force to achieve his goals. Russia currently controls nearly one-fifth of Ukraine's territory, with fighting ongoing in eastern Ukraine. The Russian leader's comments come as the international community, led by the US and Europe, calls for an end to the four-year war. However, a key obstacle to peace remains the issue of occupied land, which Ukraine has pledged to never relinquish. Putin has also questioned the legitimacy of Ukraine's leadership, citing President Volodymyr Zelensky's refusal to hold elections when his term expired. Ukraine has countered that it cannot hold elections while under martial law and defending against Russian aggression. Putin claimed that Russian forces have encircled Ukrainian troops in several key cities, including Pokrovsk and Myrnograd. However, Ukraine denies these claims, insisting its forces continue to hold the front line. The Russian President also stated that Moscow is advancing in other areas, including Vovchansk and Siversk. Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, sparking the worst armed conflict in Europe since World War II. The international community continues to push for a peaceful resolution, but a lasting ceasefire remains elusive.