When Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered up to 200,000 soldiers into Ukraine, his aim was to sweep into the capital, Kyiv, in a matter of days. He wanted to overthrow the pro-Western government and return Ukraine to Russia's sphere of influence.

Putin made his first public comments on Ukraine's willingness to negotiate a ceasefire, thanking world leaders for their efforts in addressing the conflict.

Vladimir Putin stated that Russia agrees to cease hostilities but insists it must lead to lasting peace and address the crisis's root causes.