**Amid ongoing conflict and stalled peace negotiations, Putin's remarks raise questions about the legitimacy of Ukraine's current leadership.**
**Putin Proposes UN Control Over Ukraine for New Government Formation**
**Putin Proposes UN Control Over Ukraine for New Government Formation**
**Russian President suggests interim UN administration to facilitate democratic elections in Ukraine**
In a recent statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed the idea of placing Ukraine temporarily under United Nations oversight to facilitate the establishment of a new government he deems more "competent" than the current administration in Kyiv. This controversial remark adds a new chapter to the ongoing diplomatic challenges concerning Ukraine's sovereignty as the war enters its fourth year.
Ukrainian officials have criticized this suggestion, branding it as "crazy" and an attempt by Russia to hinder peace discussions, which have been gaining traction under U.S. President Donald Trump's mediation. The White House reiterated that the governance of Ukraine should ultimately be decided by its constitution and its people, dismissing Putin's call for external intervention.
Putin made his comments while addressing Russian naval personnel in Murmansk, suggesting that a UN-administered government could be formed in conjunction with the U.S. and European nations. He claimed this process would lead to democratic elections allowing for the establishment of a government that reflects the people's trust, subsequently paving the way for genuine peace negotiations.
The Kremlin has long disputed the legitimacy of President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of overstepping his constitutional mandate by remaining in power during wartime when elections are impractical. However, Zelensky has not called elections due to the ongoing conflict, which has displaced millions of Ukrainians and left many unable to vote. By proposing new elections, Putin appears to undermine Zelensky’s status as a negotiator, a sentiment echoed by some U.S. officials.
Despite pressing claims of military momentum, Russia's territorial advances in eastern Ukraine have been modest and slow. Last week, President Zelensky engaged with European leaders, exploring potential support mechanisms for Ukraine, including a security force from the UK and France to bolster its defenses amid the ongoing war which began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.
