Putin’s Rhetoric Escalates as He Declares “The Whole of Ukraine Is Ours

At the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin reignited controversy by declaring that “in that sense, the whole of Ukraine is ours,” referring to his belief that Russians and Ukrainians are “one people”. While he claimed not to question Ukraine’s sovereignty, Putin emphasized that Ukraine’s 1991 declaration of independence was based on neutrality—a condition he now argues has been violated.

Putin’s remarks included a chilling proverb: “Where the foot of a Russian soldier steps, that is ours,” signaling a continued justification for territorial expansion. He also hinted at the possibility of Russian forces taking the Ukrainian city of Sumy, framing it as part of a buffer zone to protect Russian territory.

Ukrainian officials swiftly condemned the comments. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called them a display of “complete disdain” for peace efforts, accusing Moscow of planning further territorial seizures and violence.

While Putin insists Russia is open to peace, his conditions—recognition of occupied territories and abandonment of NATO ambitions—are seen by Kyiv and its allies as tantamount to capitulation.

The statement marks one of Putin’s most assertive claims since the war began, casting a long shadow over any prospects for diplomatic resolution.