Putin Accuses Ukrainian Forces of Terrorism Amid Ongoing Conflict in Kursk Region

During a meeting with Security Council members on March 14, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukrainian servicemen involved in the invasion of the Kursk region of committing numerous crimes against civilians, labeling these actions as acts of terrorism. His comments came in the context of escalating tensions in the area.

Putin expressed a willingness to consider U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for a humane approach towards the Ukrainian soldiers, but stipulated that this would only occur if they surrender. He stated that Ukrainian military personnel who lay down their arms would be guaranteed safety and humane treatment in accordance with international and Russian law.

The Russian president emphasized that for Trump’s ceasefire proposal to be realized, Ukraine’s military-political leadership must instruct its forces to capitulate. Trump had previously urged an end to the conflict on his social media platform, Truth Social, stressing the need to resolve the fate of the encircled Ukrainian soldiers based on humanitarian principles to prevent a “horrible massacre.”

The situation in the Kursk region has remained volatile since the Ukrainian Armed Forces launched their invasion in August 2024. As of mid-March, the Russian Defense Ministry reported that Russian troops had reclaimed over 1,100 square kilometers of territory, including the city of Sudzha, while isolating significant enemy forces. Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov noted that Ukrainian losses in the region had surpassed 67 soldiers.

In response to the escalating conflict, Trump has intensified diplomatic efforts, engaging in discussions with Putin and dispatching special envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow to negotiate ceasefire terms. According to reports from Reuters, the United States has proposed a 30-day ceasefire, but Russia has insisted that capitulation must occur as a preliminary step before any agreement can be reached.