Putin Says Peace-Talk Frustration Stems From ‘Excessive Expectations’

Russian President Vladimir Putin said disappointment over the latest peace negotiations is the result of “excessive expectations,” suggesting that critics should temper their hopes for rapid progress. He made the remark during a meeting in Moscow with Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, who separately referenced what he called an ultimatum from U.S. President Donald Trump pressing Moscow to move faster toward a settlement. Putin’s comments appeared to be an indirect response to Trump’s frustration with the pace of the talks. While neither leader disclosed details of the negotiations or the parties involved, the Russian president’s statement indicates the Kremlin does not intend to accelerate concessions under external pressure. Lukashenko, a close ally of Moscow, echoed the stance, saying both countries had anticipated Trump’s recent statements.