Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Ukraine must remain neutral to facilitate peace and prevent it from being exploited by foreign powers, particularly in relation to NATO ambitions. He asserted that Ukraine's borders should align with the wishes of the local populations in territories claimed by Russia and that without neutrality, good-neighborly relations are unimaginable. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected these conditions as tantamount to surrender and has proposed a 'victory plan' seeking further military support from Western allies. Putin reiterated that Russia's recognition of Ukraine's post-Soviet borders was based on the understanding of its neutral status, which has since been violated by NATO's expansion. The ongoing conflict has resulted in Russia controlling approximately one-fifth of Ukraine's territory. As the war continues, both leaders remain firm in their stances, with Ukraine vowing to expel all Russian forces despite challenges in resources.