Putin Urges World Leaders at G20 to End Tragedy of Ukraine War and Find Peace Solution

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the Group of 20 (G20) world leaders on Wednesday, emphasizing the need to end the tragedy of the ongoing war in Ukraine. He stated that Moscow has never refused to participate in peace talks with Kyiv, and expressed willingness to find a solution to the conflict. Putin's decision to send troops into Ukraine in February 2022 has led to the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War Two and the most severe confrontation between Russia and the West since the Cold War. Several leaders at the G20 meeting expressed shock at Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine.

During the virtual G20 meeting called by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Putin acknowledged that military actions are always a tragedy. He urged the international community to contemplate ways to stop this tragedy from continuing. Additionally, he reiterated Russia's openness to engaging in peace talks with Ukraine. A senior Russian official declared on Tuesday that Moscow cannot coexist with the current government in Kyiv and would persist with its military operation to demilitarize Ukraine. In response, Ukraine has vowed to fight until the last Russian soldier leaves its territory, and its Western allies have pledged continued support.

Besides the annexation of Crimea in 2014, Russia now controls almost a fifth of Ukraine's internationally recognized territory, according to Putin, who asserts that this territory is now part of Russia. Despite Ukraine's counter-offensive efforts, it has struggled to make significant gains against entrenched Russian forces. This G20 meeting marks Putin's first direct address to the world leaders since the start of the conflict. In the past, Putin had opted to send his foreign minister as a representative. He last attended a G20 gathering in person in Osaka, Japan, in 2019.

In conclusion, Putin's speech at the G20 meeting highlighted the need to find a resolution to the war in Ukraine and reiterated Russia's willingness to engage in peace talks. The ongoing conflict and the annexation of Crimea have had severe consequences, and Ukraine continues to resist Russian control. The international community, particularly the G20 leaders, will play a crucial role in addressing this conflict and its implications for regional stability.