Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed placing Ukraine under temporary United Nations administration as a means to install what he described as a more "competent" and “capable” government. The remarks were made during a speech to the crew of a nuclear-powered submarine in Murmansk, northern Russia, further escalating his rhetoric against the current leadership in Kyiv.
Putin suggested that such a transitional arrangement could be coordinated “with the United States, with European countries, and of course with our partners and friends,” to pave the way for democratic elections and ultimately, a peace agreement.
“This would be to hold democratic elections, to bring to power a capable government trusted by the people, and then to begin talks on a peace agreement and sign legitimate documents,” he said.
The proposal marks the latest in a series of attempts by the Kremlin to undermine the legitimacy of the Ukrainian government. Western leaders are expected to reject the suggestion, viewing it as part of Russia's broader strategy to destabilize Ukraine and legitimize its ongoing aggression through political subversion.
Ukraine accused Putin of suggesting "crazy" ideas to delay progress toward a peace deal, which is being advocated by U.S. President Donald Trump. The White House reaffirmed that Ukraine's governance would be determined by its constitution and its people.
Putin's comments come as the U.S. attempts to broker a ceasefire in the ongoing war with Ukraine, now in its fourth year.