"We have never refused to," Putin said in reference to possible "mediators" India and peace negotiations with Ukraine.

 Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on Thursday, expressed his openness to engage in peace negotiations with Ukraine, emphasizing that any talks should be based on the agreements made during the early stages of the conflict in Turkey. Putin referred to these agreements, which were reached during the Istanbul talks, as a potential foundation for future peace discussions. 

"We have never refused to," Putin said in reference to possible "mediators" India and peace negotiations with Ukraine.

He reiterated that Russia has never been unwilling to negotiate, but emphasized that the discussions should not be centered around vague or unrealistic demands. Instead, they should be built upon the concrete terms that were previously agreed upon in Istanbul. 

In his remarks, Putin also highlighted the possibility of India, China, and Brazil serving as mediators in the peace process. He specifically mentioned India's role as a potential mediator, referencing recent statements made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visits to Russia and Ukraine. Modi had reaffirmed India's strong commitment to facilitating a peaceful and lasting resolution to the conflict.

Putin further elaborated on the military situation, claiming that Ukraine’s recent incursion into Russia's Kursk region was an attempt to impede Russian advances in Donbas. According to Putin, the incursion was ultimately unsuccessful and led to a weakening of Ukrainian forces on other fronts. This, he argued, has allowed Russia to intensify its operations in eastern Ukraine.