Putin Raises Prospect of Peace with Ukraine While NATO Chief Warns of Russia's Growing Recklessness
Why It MattersEscalating rhetoric and airspace warnings around the conflict add uncertainty for carriers operating near Russian and Ukrainian airspace.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok that there is a "chance" for peace with Ukraine, adding that the conflict must be resolved by Russia and Ukraine directly. He labeled Ukrainian warnings to airlines to avoid Russian airspace as "state terrorism."
Putin's remarks came a day after NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned that Russia is becoming "increasingly reckless," citing missiles and drones crossing Europe's eastern flank and an alleged Russian hybrid attack at Germany's Leipzig airport last month. Rutte, speaking alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, said "the dangers Russia poses are clear, and we are working around the clock to ensure that we are prepared to keep our people safe," and cautioned that Russia was mistaken if it believed NATO allies would be divided or deterred from supporting Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had urged airlines on Tuesday to avoid Russian airspace as Kyiv intensifies its drone operations against Russia.
