Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted on Wednesday that the recent attacks on bridges in the Bryansk and Kursk regions indicate Ukraine's lack of desire for peace. Seven individuals lost their lives and over 110 were injured following the collapse of two road bridges in these border regions on May 31. Russia's Investigative Committee has classified these incidents as a 'terrorist attack' orchestrated 'on the orders of the Kyiv regime.'
According to Anadolu Agency, Ukraine has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement in the attacks. During a meeting with government officials, Putin reiterated Russia's stance, labeling the attacks as a 'terrorist act' under 'all international norms.' He argued that the decisions to carry out such actions were 'made in Ukraine at the political level.'
Putin further claimed that these crimes against civilians were intended to disrupt the negotiation process, particularly on the eve of proposed peace talks in Istanbul. He accused the Ukrainian government of gradually transforming into a 'terrorist organization' and criticized Kyiv's partners for becoming 'accomplices of terrorists.' These actions, he argued, were attempts to intimidate Russia amidst Ukraine's military setbacks.
The Russian president questioned the feasibility of peace talks under such conditions and expressed skepticism about negotiating with entities that rely on terror. He also noted Ukraine's rejection of Russia's proposal for a partial ceasefire, stating that it was unsurprising and further proof that the current Kyiv regime is uninterested in achieving peace.