5 September: Vladimir Putin has suggested that Beijing, Brasília, or New Delhi could serve as neutral intermediaries in negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine. During a panel discussion at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin was asked which nations he thought could facilitate peace talks. He named China, Brazil, and India, stating, “I am in contact with my partners… we have trust and confidence in one another.” He also expressed his willingness to engage in negotiations if Ukraine showed interest in continuing discussions.
Putin’s comments follow recent signals from Kyiv, which has indicated a reluctance to enter direct negotiations with Russia. Instead, Ukraine is working to form a coalition of intermediaries, including countries that may have favorable relations with Russia, to help advance President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s 10-point peace plan and pressure Moscow to cease its aggression.
Joining Putin on the panel were Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and China’s Vice President Han Zheng. During the session, Han voiced opposition to protectionism, supply chain disruptions, and unilateral sanctions. Meanwhile, Anwar praised Putin for Russia’s economic resilience and expressed Malaysia’s interest in deepening economic ties with Russia. He also confirmed Malaysia’s aim to join the BRICS group of emerging economies, which he believes will strengthen trade relations with Russia.
The BRICS group, initially established in 2009 to enhance cooperation among Russia, China, India, and Brazil, has since expanded to include nine members, including Iran, Egypt, South Africa, Ethiopia, and the UAE. Saudi Arabia has shown interest in joining, while Malaysia and Azerbaijan have formally applied for membership.
