Russian President Vladimir Putin has called on Ukrainian military generals to remove President Volodymyr Zelenskyy from power and establish a “transitional administration” in Ukraine, vowing those Russian forces would “finish off” Ukrainian troops.
His remarks come as U.S. President Donald Trump pushes for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.
Putin’s confidence appears bolstered by Washington’s shifting stance, with the potential for improved relations between Russia and the U.S. under Trump’s leadership. More than three years into the war, which has caused tens of thousands of casualties, Putin remains determined to install a Moscow-friendly government in Kyiv.
Call for a Transitional Government
Speaking at an Arctic forum on Friday, March 28, Putin suggested that Russia, the U.S., Europe, and Moscow’s allies—under the auspices of the United Nations—could discuss setting up a transitional administration in Ukraine.
“What for? To organize a democratic presidential election that would bring a competent government to power—one that has the confidence of the people. Only then can we begin negotiations for a peace agreement and sign legitimate documents,” Putin stated.
Targeting Zelenskyy’s Leadership
Since launching its 2022 invasion, Moscow has repeatedly attempted to topple Ukraine’s government but was met with strong resistance.
In his latest remarks, Putin again called on Ukraine’s military leadership to overthrow Zelenskyy, whom he has frequently accused—without evidence—of being a neo-Nazi and a drug addict.
Moscow has also questioned Zelenskyy’s legitimacy as president, claiming his authority expired in May 2024 when his initial five-year term ended. However, under Ukrainian law, elections are suspended during wartime, and Zelenskyy’s domestic opponents agree that no vote should take place until the conflict ends.
Kremlin’s Justification
When asked about Putin’s remarks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed they were driven by what Moscow perceives as Kyiv’s “total lack of control” over its military. He accused Ukraine of daily attempts to attack Russian energy infrastructure.
Peskov also suggested that Russia is currently refraining from targeting Ukraine’s energy facilities but warned that Moscow “reserves the right to retaliate” if Ukraine continues its alleged attacks.
