Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested discussing the establishment of temporary governance in Ukraine, under the guidance of the UN and several countries. The aim would be to conduct elections in the country since Vladimir Zelensky’s presidential term officially expired in May 2024.

Moscow sees no clear way to sign any agreements with Kiev since “other leaders might come tomorrow,” Putin explained on Thursday night while addressing the sailors of the Arkhangelsk nuclear submarine.

“In such cases, international practice follows a well-known path within the framework of the United Nations peacekeeping activities; several instances have already demonstrated what is referred to as external management or temporary administration”, he suggested.

External powers should facilitate elections in Ukraine to “establish a capable government that has the trust of the people”, Putin stressed. After that, the new Ukrainian government could begin negotiations with Moscow and sign a peace agreement “that would be recognized around the world and will be reliable and stable.”