- Putin stated there is a chance for peace with Ukraine, but criticized Kyiv's aviation warning as 'state terrorism' that complicates negotiations.
- Ukraine urged the U.N. aviation agency on September 2, 2026, to ban operations in Russian airspace due to safety concerns.
- Zelenskyy warned airlines and insurance companies about the dangers posed by Ukrainian drones in Russian skies, stating that Ukraine would only target military facilities.
- Ukraine has been cut off from international civil aviation since the Russian invasion in 2022, as its airspace is considered unsafe.
- After four and a half years of war, the front line has remained largely static, with no peace talks since February.
- Putin mentioned ongoing contacts with the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a potential peace deal.
Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated on Thursday that there is a "chance" for peace with Ukraine, although he criticized Kyiv's recent aviation warnings as "state terrorism" that complicates negotiations. Speaking at an economic forum, he emphasized that the conflict must ultimately be resolved by the involved countries, Russia and Ukraine.12357
Putin's remarks come amid heightened tensions, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warning airlines of dangers in Russian airspace due to the presence of Ukrainian drones. Zelenskyy clarified that Ukraine's military actions would target only Russian military facilities, not civilian aircraft. This week, Ukraine also urged the U.N. aviation agency to recommend a ban on operations in Russian airspace.4
Despite the ongoing conflict, which has seen a static front line for over four years and no peace talks since February, Putin noted that several countries, including the U.S. and China, are ready to support a peace settlement. He stated, “We are grateful to everyone attempting to contribute to a settlement. Is there a chance? In my view, yes, there is.”6
However, he warned that Ukrainian attacks on shipping and threats to civilian aircraft are "acts of state terrorism" that hinder peace talks. Contacts with the Trump administration continue, with intelligence agencies from both nations engaging in discussions, although details remain undisclosed.
“Putin said Russia favors restoring full-scale relations with the U.S., noting President Trump is committed to constructive engagement. He also confirmed contacts between intelligence agencies and Trump's envoys, while CIA chief John Ratcliffe met Russian spy chiefs in Moscow last week.”
