Putin: West Holds Key to Ukraine War End, Denies Stalling Talks

• Russian President Vladimir Putin stated the "ball is in the West's court" to end the Ukraine war, denying Moscow is delaying negotiations.
• Putin asserted Russia did not start the conflict and is not responsible for casualties, blaming Ukraine and Western allies.
• He claimed Russian forces have "fully seized strategic initiative" and are advancing across the front line.
• Moscow's demands for peace include recognition of annexed territories, Ukraine's withdrawal from certain eastern areas, and abandoning its NATO bid.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is open to dropping NATO membership for security guarantees but prefers alliance membership.

Why It Matters: Putin blames West for war's continuation, outlines non-negotiable demands for peace.