**Russia‘s Putin Announces Plans for “Security Buffer Zone” Along Ukraine Border**
Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a significant claim regarding the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. On May 22, he stated that Russia is creating a “security buffer zone” along its border with Ukraine, according to reports from Russian state media.
The announcement comes as tensions between Russia and Ukraine remain high, with both sides engaged in fighting across the border. Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has responded to Putin’s statement, expressing skepticism about Russia’s intentions and suggesting that the move is a further indication of Moscow’s lack of interest in peace.
**A “Buffer Zone” on Ukrainian Soil?**
Putin’s proposal for a buffer zone along the borders of Kursk, Bryansk, and Belgorod oblasts has been met with caution by Ukraine. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi emphasized that any such zone would be seen as an attempt to undermine Ukrainian sovereignty.
“Russia can create a buffer zone on its own territory,” Tykhyi said in a statement. “We have been conducting operations there since last year.”
The proposal for a buffer zone is the latest development in the ongoing conflict, which has seen repeated clashes between Russian and Ukrainian forces. The situation remains complex, with Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry accusing Russia of rejecting peace efforts.
**Russia Rebuffs Ceasefire Proposals**
This announcement by Putin comes as Russia has rejected proposals from the US and Europe for a complete ceasefire in the war against Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed on May 21 that Moscow has no interest in pursuing a ceasefire, stating that it “doesn’t want this anymore.”
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry views Putin’s comments as further evidence of Russia’s unwillingness to pursue peace.
“These new aggressive claims clearly reject peace efforts and show that Putin has been and remains the only reason the killing continues,” wrote Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on X. “He needs to face more pressure to end this war.”
**A Long-Term Conflict?**
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine shows no signs of abating, with both sides suffering losses in fighting across the border. The situation remains volatile, with neither side showing any willingness to compromise.
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