Putin has seen "a little light at the end of the tunnel" in Ukraine, but has ensured that the war will continue if no agreement is reached

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that he sees "some light" at the "end of the tunnel" in Ukraine thanks to US diplomatic efforts. But he said that if peace negotiations fail, Russia will continue to pursue its objectives "by military means."

Putin has stressed that "if common sense prevails, an acceptable agreement can be reached for this conflict." "All the more so given the mood of the current US administration led by President Trump. Rather than calls, there is a real effort to find a solution," he said.

He added that if this process does not have a solution, "we will have to achieve the objectives set by military means".

In this regard, he has stressed that the Russian Army is making "successful progress" in almost all sectors of the front, and that the situation of the enemy is "critical", has hardly any reserves, and most brigades have less than half the necessary personnel, according to the Russian President.

Regarding security guarantees for Ukraine, he has denied that this issue was discussed at the summit with Trump in mid-August in Alaska, adding that they cannot be taken "at Russia's expense."

Russian President Volodimir Zelenski has also expressed his willingness to meet Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski if he travels to Moscow: "If Zelensky is ready (to meet), let him come to Moscow and this meeting will take place."

Putin has assured that he has "never" ruled out a meeting with Zelensky, but has wondered whether that would make "some sense". He has also questioned whether Zelensky himself is a legitimate person for that debate, claiming that he remains in office even after the presidency.

However, Ukraine is unable to organise elections, as part of its territory is currently occupied by Russian troops.

Regarding the possible meeting, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andri Sibiga has described Putin's proposal as "unacceptable" and recalled that at least seven countries are prepared to host a meeting between Ukrainian and Russian leaders.

In this regard, Sibiga has said that these options are "serious" and has reiterated that Zelensky is prepared to hold the meeting at any time.